What Happened
In early 2019, new details surfaced regarding a collaborative volumetric 3D printing technology developed by researchers at UC Berkeley and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). This technology utilizes Computed Axial Lithography (CAL), a volumetric printing approach that promises to revolutionize the speed and complexity of 3D printed parts by curing entire volumes of resin simultaneously rather than layer-by-layer.
Why It Matters
The breakthrough in CAL volumetric printing addresses some of the persistent limitations in traditional additive manufacturing, such as slow build times and anisotropic mechanical properties caused by layering. By enabling the creation of complex geometries in seconds, this technology could dramatically accelerate prototyping and production cycles across industries, from biomedical devices to aerospace components. The collaboration between a leading university and a national laboratory signals the growing strategic importance of volumetric printing in the broader manufacturing ecosystem.
Technical Context
Computed Axial Lithography is inspired by medical imaging techniques, specifically computed tomography (CT). Instead of imaging, CAL projects a series of 2D light patterns from multiple angles into a rotating volume of photosensitive resin. These patterns are calculated so that the cumulative light dose cures the resin only where the final 3D shape is desired. This volumetric approach contrasts with conventional layer-by-layer stereolithography or fused deposition modeling, allowing for continuous and rapid solidification. The UC Berkeley-LLNL collaboration reportedly refined the optical setup and resin chemistry to improve resolution, reduce print artifacts, and scale the process for larger build volumes.
Despite these advances, some technical challenges remain, including precise control of light dose distribution to avoid over- or under-curing, managing resin optical properties, and developing materials compatible with volumetric curing. The current information does not fully detail how these challenges have been overcome, indicating ongoing research.
Near-term Prediction Model
Based on the available information, CAL volumetric printing is transitioning from research to pilot stages. Commercial viability depends on further optimization of hardware, materials, and process control to meet industrial standards.
What to Watch
- Publication of detailed technical results and peer-reviewed studies validating print resolution, mechanical properties, and process repeatability.
- Announcements of pilot projects or partnerships with industry players to test CAL in real-world manufacturing scenarios.
- Development of resin formulations tailored for volumetric curing with enhanced mechanical and chemical properties.
- Advances in hardware scalability to enable larger build volumes without compromising accuracy.
- Emergence of competing volumetric printing technologies and their respective market impacts.