3D Print Kompas

3D printing is a relatively new technology. It offers a lot of opportunities, but at the same time it also brings a lot of challenges. These challenges are: application in large-scale production, using different materials, and the varying mechanical properties between 3D-printed products and traditional products.

Aside from that, sustainability in consumer products is rapidly changing. In a few years it will be mandatory to make a product in such a way that the consumer can repair their product by switching out modules. It also has to be possible to divide materials for recycling.

The goal of this project is to improve the knowledge of techniques surrounding printed electronics. It researches the realisation of applications in this field and works on better and more efficient production processes. Furthermore, this project strengthens collaboration within the 3D printing field of the Northern Netherlands by combining the knowledge of companies and institutions in various sectors.

The Northern-Netherlands aims to become the frontrunning region of the Netherlands in the field of 3D printing. The approach of this project creates an ecosystem with knowledge, facility, and education. This way, new products and processes can be realized. Furthermore, the project strengthens the industrial sector by facilitating the transition towards complete digitization. This improves ability to create more sustainable products and improving efficiency and effectiveness of production processes, for both industrial and consumer applications.

One of the concrete results is the founding of a Virtual Shared Facility. Education institutions and small to medium large businesses can make use of each other’s facilities and infrastructure to produce 3D-printed products, experiment with new techniques and figure out new possibilities to print electronics and implants, or with new materials such as glass or metal.

This project contributes to a smarter, greener, more social and more inclusive Northern-Netherlands. The development of smarter systems and products leads to a decrease in material and energy consumption.

Because the high tech industry is a growing one, it will also contribute to the economic well-being of the Northern Netherlands as well as combatting unemployment.

This project is a good fit for the goals as set by Hanze University of Applied Sciences to intensively collaborate with companies and institutions from the region. The aim is to always work towards a win-win situation for all involved parties. On the one hand, new knowledge can be converted into various applications for industry. On the other, the research closely aligns with the wants and needs of society and the professional field.