Since its big unveil last year, Carbon‘s Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP) technology has been in high-demand, with the Silicon Valley startup slowly making its partnerships known to the public. After companies like Ford and Legacy Effects were announced as users of Carbon’s ultra-fast 3D printing process, the firm finally made the technology public through a select group of service providers. Now, it’s caught the eye of one of the pioneers in color photography, resulting in a joint development agreement between Carbon and Kodak.
Carbon’s 3D printing technology relies on DLP projection and an oxygen-permeable to 3D print objects at speeds 25 to 100-times faster than other processes. In addition to the sheer speed of the CLIP process, Carbon’s system is also able to produce parts with gret mechanical properties, resolution, and finish. It’s no surprise then that Kodak, which has a history of chemical expertise, has reached out to work with the startup.
The two partners announced today that they would work together on materials development to address new opportunities for CLIP 3D printing. Carbon’s own materials development will complement Kodak’s innovation in the field of materials science to see CLIP applied to an even greater range of applications. Dr. Joseph DeSimone, CEO and Co-Founder of Carbon, said of the agreement, “We are excited to have Kodak as a partner as we continue to bring our technology to an array of industries including automotive, aerospace, athletic shoes and life sciences. This collaboration further proves our dedication to the development of breakthrough additive materials.” Kodak CEO Jeff Clarke added, “Together, Carbon and Kodak are well positioned to develop and expand market opportunities for CLIP-based additive manufacturing. Kodak is a world leader in materials development and we are excited to be working with an innovative and progressive company like Carbon.”
While every bit of news that comes from Carbon is exciting in its own right, this announcement is particularly interesting in the context of historical camera and printer manufacturers joining the 3D printing space. HP has made the biggest entrance into the industry with its MultiJet Fusion technology, but it seems that everyone from Canon to Epson to Mimaki are also investing in 3D printing. After emerging from bankruptcy, upon selling many of its patents, it seems that Kodak is seeking to establish a foothold in the industry, as well, and it may have chosen the best possible partner with which to do so.
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