The 3DTransducers project involved the development of 3D printing technology that was initiated with the European Research Council (ERC) project Soft and Small: Acoustic Transducers Inspired by Nature (SASATIN). The original ERC SASATIN project research developed methods of creating miniature acoustic sensors (and actuators) inspired by how insects hear sounds. This led to the creation of fully functioning 3D printed microphones and acoustic devices in a laboratory setting.
The 3DTransducers proof-of-concept project had two themes, one technical and one commercial. In the technical theme work was successfully carried out to further understand the possibilities and limitations of the 3D printing technology developed within SASATIN. This has resulted in an in-depth understanding of the design and fabrication process required to repeatedly create reliable transducers using 3D printing. Several different types of sensor and transducer have been designed, fabricated and tested using this process. The primary functionality of these has related to acoustic systems, across different industrial sectors. However, devices have also been developed for the medical sector.
In the commercial theme an investigation was carried out into the possible market sectors that the technology from 3DTransducers could be utilised in. This included identification of use cases and possible device types that the technology could have a disruptive influence on. This information has been used to pinpoint further routes for industrial and research funding to continue the development of the 3DTransducers technology. This has led to the development of two patents with industrial partners, with technology licensing agreements in place. Further funding applications are ongoing in different industrial sectors.
Overall, the project successfully completed its objectives. The development of the technology, and understanding its design capabilities, has led to initial commercial partnerships, with further funding and commercial proposals in progress.
