3DExpress: Boston Micro Fabrication Awarded U.S. Patent for Dual-Resolution 3D Printing Technology
This week in 3DExpress, we’re looking at innovation and recognition across the additive manufacturing landscape. Boston Micro Fabrication secured a U.S. patent for its dual-resolution micro-scale 3D printing system. In Europe, Josef Průša received one of the Czech Republic’s highest honors for his contributions to 3D printing accessibility. Meanwhile, Stratasys launched the iAM Marketplace, a new platform aimed at streamlining industrial AM supply chains ahead of its Formnext debut. And in the world of art and fashion, Takashi Murakami brought 3D printing to Louis Vuitton’s latest Artycapucines collection, proving once again that additive manufacturing continues to inspire creativity far beyond the factory floor.
Boston Micro Fabrication Awarded Patent for Dual-Resolution Micro-Scale 3D Printing Technology
Yesterday, Boston Micro Fabrication (BMF) announced that it was awarded a U.S. patent for its “Multi-Scale System for Projection Micro Stereolithography.” The patent covers BMF’s dual-resolution optical system, a key factor behind the company’s microArch® D1025 printer. The microArch D1025 was launched in 2024 and has already been used by medical device and electronics manufacturers. The patented system within the printer allows high-resolution 3D printing across larger build areas. This is achieved by integrating multiple projection lenses with distinct imaging ratios (for instance, 10-micron and 20-micron resolutions) within a single optical path. With these dual lenses, the printer can switch between resolutions on demand, optimizing for detail and throughput without compromising precision. This innovation increases the potential for micro 3D printing in industries such as medical devices, electronics, photonics, microfluidics, and research.
The microArch D1025 dual-resolution micro 3D printer (Photo Credit: BMF)
Josef Průša Given Award by the Czech President
On October 28th, Josef Průša, founder and CEO of Prusa Research, was awarded the Medal of Merit by Czech President Petr Pavel. Prusa was one of 48 individuals who were given an award by President Pavel for their contributions to the country. The award ceremony took place on a Czech national holiday, the Day of the Establishment of the Independent Czechoslovak State. According to Prusa Research’s LinkedIn post about the event, Průša was given the award for his contributions to 3D printing, including its popularization and making the technology more accessible to the public. The award was given in recognition of his service to the state in the field of economics.
Photo via Prusa Research LinkedIn
Stratasys Launches iAM Marketplace, A Platform for AM Materials and Solutions
Stratasys has just unveiled iAM Marketplace™, an independent platform designed to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing as a core part of industrial processes. This new space offers a wide selection of polymeric materials, engineering services, and 3D printing products. Its main objective is to make supply chains more agile and efficient. The marketplace brings together the expertise of iSQUARED, Forward AM, and Nexa3D assets, consolidating decades of innovation in an open environment that allows manufacturers to access certified materials and customized solutions in one place. According to Yoav Zeif, CEO of Stratasys, this initiative “expands the market and strengthens operational efficiency by serving the entire 3D printing industry.” The official launch will take place at Formnext 2025 in Frankfurt, where the platform’s potential to drive flexibility and scalability in global additive manufacturing will be presented.
Takashi Murakami Uses 3D Printing for Louis Vuitton Collaboration
Every year, Louis Vuitton collaborates with artists to create the exclusive Artycapucines collection, a series of bags that uses the classic Capucines bag as a canvas. This year, the brand invited Japanese artist Takashi Murakami to design the collection, which was unveiled last weekend for Art Basel Paris. The eleven-piece series incorporates Murakami’s iconic Smiling Flowers and bright color palette, along with many sculptural elements. What interests us here is one piece in particular: the Capucines Mini Mushroom. This bag features nearly 100 3D-printed mini mushrooms that were hand-embroidered onto the silver bag. While we don’t know what printer Murakami used, we know they were 3D printed with resin. The Capucine Mini Mushroom bag is yet another testament to how art, fashion, and 3D printing can come together.
The Capucines Mini Mushroom stands out in the center. (Photo Credit: Louis Vouitton)
What do you think of Boston Micro Fabrication’s dual-resolution optical system? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn or Facebook pages! Plus, don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter to get the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox. You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.
