Rapid Ready Roundup: Patent News, KamerMaker, Dell, Valentine’s Day

In the course of my diligent efforts to keep you good people up to date on the state of additive manufacturing (AM), I come across many interesting news items. I’ll gather them up every so often and present them in a Rapid Ready Roundup (like this one). You can find the last Roundup here.

We’ll start today’s Roundup with some patent news. Royal DSM has won a patent dispute in Europe concerning the development of materials for stereolithography. The patent in question, EP1232198, titled, UV Curable Compositions, was held by 3D Systems. The successful challenge allows DSM to expand its Somos brand of stereolithography materials, and opens the door for other companies to do the same. 

“We’re pleased with the outcome as it encourages innovation in the area of photopolymers for stereolithography. We continue to focus on delivering the best materials to fit the industry and our customers’ needs,” says Melissa Hayes, Somos Business Director for DSM.

Moving on, it looks as though KamerMaker is moving ahead at full speed with its plans to construct a building using AM. The plan, initially covered here, has been set in motion and once the initial phase of construction is complete, the structure will be open to the public to visit on March 1-2. Here are a few more details about the construction from the website:

Each room is printed separately on site before being assembled into one house. Each room is different and consists of complex and tailor-made architecture and unique design features. The structure is scripted and this creates its proper strength but also generates ornament, and allows for new types of smart features, such as angled shading scripted to the exact solar angle. Each printed room consists of several parts, which are joined together as large Lego-like blocks. Within the 3D printed walls are spares for connecting construction, cables, pipes, communication technique, wiring etc.

Next up is Dell’s deal with MakerBot to act as a reseller for 3D printers and 3D scanners. The deal highlights Dell’s burgeoning interest in AM, both as a customer and as an, “End-to-End 3D Digital Prototyping Solution” provider. The deal includes sales of the Replicator, Replicator 2, Replicator 2X, Replicator Mini, Replicator Z18, and the Digitizer 3D scanner.

“At Dell we strive to arm start-ups, designers and engineers with the powerful, reliable and cutting-edge technology they need to succeed,” said Andy Rhodes, executive director, Dell Precision workstations. “With the addition of MakerBot’s 3D printers and scanners to Dell’s workstation portfolio, our customers can now bring their innovative prototypes to life much more quickly and affordably.”

Last for today, if you are stuck deciding on a unique Valentine’s Day gift for your significant other, 3D printing might be the solution. If you’ve plumbed the depths of Shapeways and still haven’t found what you’re looking for, Dyo might be worth checking out. The website helps you design your very own 3D printed Valentine’s gift.

“In honor of Valentine’s Day we’re kicking off the site with a line of customizable jewelry, designed especially for you. Each piece uses personal data to create one of a kind jewelry you can order in plastic, metal or sterling silver: An application that maps an important address (i.e. the location of a first date) to a set of coordinates engraved on the outside of a ring, another that takes two birthdays to create a unique astrological pendant for a couple, or couple of friends.”

Below you’ll find a video from KamerMaker.

Sources: DSM, KamerMaker, Dell, Dyo