A team of Chinese scientists has unveiled its DISH 3D printing process, reportedly achieving complex millimeter-scale objects in just 0.6 seconds while maintaining high resolution. In other words, no more trade-off between speed and precision. While it is still early days, the initial results are promising, and the method could have major implications for fields such as biomedicine and microtechnology.
The team, based at Tsinghua University’s Imaging and Intelligent Technology Laboratory, relied on computational optics to develop the process. Specifically, they manipulated high-dimensional holographic light fields to generate 3D structures.
Example of 3D-printed parts
The result? The scientists were able to produce objects with feature sizes as small as 12 micrometers in just 0.6 seconds. The volumetric printing rate could reach 333 cubic millimeters per second. According to Wu Jiamin, associate professor and member of the research team, this would represent the fastest 3D printing speed ever recorded.
Why DISH? The acronym stands for “Digital Incoherent Synthesis of Holographic Light Fields.” In practical terms, the process relies on modulating light fields to generate a three-dimensional structure. The concept may sound abstract. However, the key distinction is clear: the method does not build parts point by point or layer by layer. Instead, it forms the structure simultaneously, enabling these record-breaking speeds.
In addition, the process eliminates the need for resin vats or bulky machinery. The researchers explain that the DISH method requires only a flat optical surface. This surface remains stationary throughout printing.
Some adjustments are still needed. However, according to the researchers, the DISH process could be particularly well suited for the serial production of microcomponents such as camera modules and photonic computing devices. Future applications in microrobotics and flexible electronics are also conceivable. Overall, the range of potential use cases is broad, and the technology shows significant promise.
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*All Photo Credits: Tsinghua University