As its name might suggest, the Consumer Electronics Show or ‘CES’ is a tradeshow dedicated to highlighting the latest advances in mainstream consumer technologies.
The exhibition has been a fixture in the diaries for those who want to keep up with the latest on cutting-edge consumables.
Given the expo’s mass-market appeal, it’s also used by some 3D printing firms as a channel through which they can address a much wider audience than their traditional industry clientele. This has helped Anycubic and Aectual showcase their systems, services, and custom medical devices in a way that brought them to the attention of the mainstream media.
This year’s show was no different, with stalwarts like Formlabs alongside big names and outside the industry such as Peugeot and Neutrogena. CES 2023 was also a showcase for 3D printing, with HyperX, Handddle, and KOKONI launching new products. Continue reading for the latest news from the showfloor.
Formlabs launches Automation Ecosystem
One of the standout launches from a 3D printing perspective was Formlabs’ introduction of a productivity-focused Automation Ecosystem. Composed of three new products: the firm’s Form Auto and High Volume Resin hardware packages, as well as a Fleet Control software, the new platform is said to help users drive greater 3D printing utilization.
While the first includes a 5-liter resin bag with pump and packaging that allow for minimal material handling, the second comes with hardware and software options that enable seamless print preparation and part removing.
At launch, Formlabs CPO Dávid Lakatos said: “The Formlabs Automation Ecosystem is a seamless solution for ramping up production with 3D printer fleets, staying true to the ease of use of all Formlabs products. Formlabs users recently achieved a major milestone, with more than 100 million parts printed on our 3D printers, and by adding this ecosystem, Formlabs is increasing the capacity so users can deliver further 3D printing innovation.”
Neutrogena tries 3D printing again
Neutrogena’s latest skincare application, personalized 3D-printed skin supplements, was also announced by the company. Using the firm’s new ‘Skin360 SkinStacks’ service, customers are now able to complete a facial self-scan to identify areas of improvement for their skincare routine, before ordering gummies designed to meet their specific needs.
Nourished is then able to fulfill each order. Nourished is a specialist in 3D-printed supplements that are made up of individual nutrients layers. The company previously traded under the brand names Vitamyne or Magic Candy Factory. They have a background in the production of sugary treats as well as helping to develop FabRX-3D personalized medicines. The firm worked previously with large consumer brands such as Colgate to market its Gummies. Now, it has a partnership agreement with Neutrogena that has a similar appeal for mass markets.
“We are grounded in the belief that beauty begins with healthy skin and are proud of a heritage that consistently delivers skincare solutions built at the intersection of science and technology,” said Roberto Khoury, SVP of Neutrogena. “Working with Nourished allows us to further that commitment by marrying our award-winning digital skin assessment with Nourished 3D printing to create on-demand dietary supplements [which] help consumers meet their personal skincare goals.”
Launches at KOKINI (Handddle) and Lynxter
KOKONI, a Chinese 3D printer manufacturer, launched its AI-powered SOTA system at CES 2023. Interestingly, the machine features an ‘upside-down’ design that’s said to deliver a print speed of up to 600mm/s while offering users “exceptional stability with close-to-zero vibration.” The system is also quiet, emitting 30 decibels of noise during operation, and packs a custom high-speed stepper motor and close-loop motor system, that provide smooth, reliable performance.
One of the more innovative aspects of the KOKONI SOTA is the machine’s AI-powered real-time monitoring and error detection systems. According to the company, the unit’s ‘AI-intelligent camera’ allows it to cover everything from spaghetti and breakage detection to material usage levels, and alert users when any changes need making.
“The KOKONI SOTA is revolutionizing the 3D printing industry, with its advanced AI technology that allows for real-time monitoring and error detection,” the firm said in a statement. “Its AI-intelligent camera and micron-level optical radar monitor the printing process for errors in real-time and can alert users. KOKONI SOTA brings the power of AI to the printing process, and takes creations to new heights.”
Handddle, which launched an Industrial Internet of Things platform to scale 3D printing to industrial level, was among the other 3D printer manufacturers that exhibited at the show. Lynxter S300X was the last-year’s launch. This system can be used to 3D print silicones or polyurethanes into orthoses, dampers and functionalized fabrics.
Peugeot unveils a new EV concept
Away from 3D printing system launches, French automotive multinational Peugeot debuted its additive manufacturing-enabled ‘Inception’ concept. At the center of this design concept is a next-gen ‘i-Cockpit,’ complete with a 3D printed rim-equipped ‘Hypersquare’ electronic control system, which can be retracted to make room for a panoramic passenger screen.
The vehicle will be powered by two 800V motors that can charge a 100kWh battery. This gives it an 800-kilometer range. Though the Innovation concept itself isn’t expected to enter end-production, many of its features are set to inform the designs of Peugeot’s electric cars from 2025 onwards.
“Peugeot is committed to the electrification of its range,” explained Peugeot Brand CEO Linda Jackson. “In 2023, 100% of the vehicles in the range will be electrified and in the next two years, five new 100% electric models will be launched. Our goal is to make Peugeot Europe’s leading electric brand by 2030. This objective and ambitious vision pave the way for a radical transformation for the brand.”
Empowering AM in gaming, robotics and other areas
HyperX, HP’s gaming division, has introduced its 3D printed keycap line. As part of its CES exhibition, the firm showcased a variety of personalized ‘HX3D’ keyboards, headsets, mice, and other gaming peripherals. Made from an eco-friendly nylon, this keycap was the first to be revealed at CES. It was the unique HyperX CozyCat design that gamers voted for.
Over the months ahead, this peripheral upgrade is set to be followed by several others for both HyperX and most other mechanical keyboards, which allow gamers to customize their favorite gear using HP’s proprietary 3D printing technology.
“We know gamers love customization, spending a lot of time and effort to update all kinds of in-game items, from characters to skins to weapons and beyond,” said Daniel Kelley, Global Gead of Marketing at HyperX. “HX3D is taking this love of personalizing a gaming experience to the physical world and enabling a wide range of fun ways to update and customize our award-winning HyperX gear.”
South Korean start-up Supernova chose to display the capabilities of its HUENIT robot arm at CES 2023. The device can identify people and objects with real-time accuracy thanks to its integrated camera, RISKV-based processors, and AI accelerators. This, in tandem with the arm’s Bluetooth functionality, potentially allows users to deploy it wirelessly within IoT applications.
According to the company the modular system can be rotated 220 degrees, lift up to 26.5 pounds and can be fitted either with tools (including a high power laser engraver, 3D printer, and utensils) for household chores. Supernova also claims to be targeting educational uses with its new product. It has been awarded a CES 2023 Innovation Award.
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Featured image is the CES Convention Center in Las Vegas. Photo by Lynxter.
