Voxels in Additive Manufacturing

Voxels in Additive Manufacturing

Here's a unique 3D printed sample showing use of voxels in additive manufacturing. By changing the properties of the voxels on the interior and exterior of the volume, we can 3D print an opaque inner shape surrounded by translucent material, in one operation.

To understand a voxel, think of a pixel. Just as “pixel” is a word meaning “picture element,” “voxel” means “volume element.” It’s essential a 3-dimensional pixel. However, instead of controlling just color, with voxels you can theoretically control other properties, such as the type of material, durometer, and translucency.

By controlling voxels, we can make parts in a single operation that would require two or more using traditional manufacturing.

For example, to make the knife handle pictured using typical injection molding techniques, first we would mold the inner rigid core. Then, we would need to mold the soft elastomer skin over the core in a second operation.  

When using an additive manufacturing process that can read the difference between the two materials using voxels, a smart machine can make the knife handle in one operation, changing materials as it builds the inner and outer layers.

Voxels have the potential to radically transform manufacturing, and we will be watching closely as the technology continues to evolve!