VINCI 7D: 3D printing technology at the Automotive industry’s service

How to obtain components for the Automotive industry that are even more innovative and bold in terms of design without compromising the efficiency of the production process? The VINCI 7D was created to address this challenge. The Project developed a robotic printing solution for functional circuits in 3D parts.

The Project developed a system that integrates a robotic arm with a multi-ink print head (decorative and functional), combined with a communication protocol between the two and 3D mapping technologies. This enables the printing of various sensors and lighting systems in 3D parts with different dimensions and structures. The prototype conceived integrates electroluminescent lighting, capacitive sensors and vibration feedback for interaction with the display via touch or slide, allowing users to access different menus and discover all the features.

The VINCI 7D thus intends to implement this technology in the Automotive sector, enabling product innovation and increasing the complexity of the design without escalating the construction and manufacturing hardship. On the other hand, it will promote the sector's competitiveness and support process efficiency, reducing the number of procedures and time spent and ensuring economic benefits for the plastic printing industry.

Find out everything about the Project, developed by CeNTI, INL - International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Minho and the company Rui Azevedo, HERE. 

The VINCI 7D was co-financed by PORTUGAL 2020 under the North Portugal Regional Operational Programme (NORTE 2020) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).