The U.S. Airforce selects Phase 3D for Fringe Research
Phase3D has been offered a Phase I contract by the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program, to advance additive manufacturing (AM) quality inspections for the U.S. Air Force. Phase3D and the U.S. Air Force have previously worked together on a quality inspection system for cold spray additive manufacturing.
Collaborating with the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI), Phase3D will deepen the development of Fringe Research, which provides real-time inspection and certification for powder-based AM.
“Phase3D’s heightmap data does not exist in a vacuum,” said Dr Niall O’Dowd, Founder and CEO of Phase3D. “While we have seen excellent correlation and predictive capabilities from heightmap layer data from structured light, we are excited to announce the development of incorporating multiple data streams to increase detection capabilities to our customers.”
Through this contract with the U.S. Air Force, Phase3D and the UDRI aim to improve defect detection by combining data from multiple sensors. Minimising errors through defect detection is extremely important in AM applications. If the collaboration is successful, this development could open the door to early defect detection, with engineers able to intervene during the build process. Whether this intervention leads to parts being repaired or the halt of the build process, early detection could improve yield numbers and minimise scrap rates.
The benefits of the Fringe Research don’t stop there. If successful, reduced waste and enhanced quality inspection could lead to minimised project lead time. Which can go on to promote better build quality and increased machine utilisation.