The submission is a hybrid kit innovation that can be integrated into any CNC machine to allow for metal deposition (via laser cladding), finishing and inspection of parts on a single machine. The hybrid methodology integrates directed energy deposition into multi-axis CNC machine, using a tool changer to change between processes.
‘Hybrid technology is exciting because it offers a new way to adopt additive manufacturing – as an upgrade to a CNC machine tool,’ said Dr. Jason Jones, co-founder and CEO of Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies. ‘Adding tool-changeable deposition heads to an existing CNC machine enables 3D printing of metal, without the need to buy a separate machine. This significantly reduces costs and provides an intuitive adoption path for CNC operators. The combination of additive with machining offers new capabilities, including in-process finishing, that cannot be delivered by either technology independently.’
Dynamic innovations
The IAMA, which took place in Orlando, Florida, is the result of a partnership between AMT, The Association For Manufacturing Technology and VDW-Verein Deutscher Werkzeugmaschinenfabriken (German Machine Tool Builders’ Association). AMT and VDW, with media support from Gardner Business Media and VDI Nachrichten and sponsored by the European Machine Tool Association CECIMO, announced the annual IAMA at IMTS-The International Manufacturing Technology Show 2014.
‘It was incredibly exciting to see so many dynamic innovations presented from around the world for this award,’ said Douglas K. Woods, AMT president. ‘It speaks highly to the evolution of additive technologies and the realization of radical productivity improvement for manufacturing. The winning submission from Hybrid Manufacturing is a perfect nod to where we foresee the industry’s future: an integration of “subtractive” CNC machining with the evolving capabilities of additive. It’s a perfect combination of existing technologies made better through new and leading-edge innovation.’
Along with the award, Hybrid Manufacturing Ltd. will also receive a US$20,000 cash prize and a media package valued at US$80,000 to promote the winning hybrid kit innovation.
