Virginia Tech® home

Multi-Axis Robotic Deposition

Multi-Axis Robotic Deposition

Multi-Axis Robotic Deposition extends extrusion-based AM by using robotic arms to deposit material along freeform toolpaths beyond flat, planar layers. This approach reduces anisotropy, expands geometric capability, and enables repair of parts with complex curvature.

The research at DREAMS Lab encompasses developing robotic slicing and toolpath strategies that improve interlayer bonding and mechanical performance relative to conventional planar deposition along with conformal printing of conductive traces and Elastomeric materials. In the past, the RAV-FAB project utilised this technology to build a fully functional quadcopter (drone) using autonomous fabrication: combining free-form 3D printing with robotic pick-and-place operations and a set of modular electronics.

PUBLISHED RESEARCH