Apple exams 3D printing for producing its upcoming smartwatches: Report

Apple Inc. is exploring the likelihood to make use of 3D printers for crafting the metal chassis employed in sure forthcoming smartwatches, as reported by Bloomberg. This marks a major shift within the firm’s manufacturing processes.

As per the report, the tactic would remove the need of slicing giant steel slabs into the product’s desired form. This would lead to a shorter system manufacturing timeframe and contribute to environmental conservation by lowered materials utilization, as per the sources who requested anonymity because of the confidential nature of the plan.

This modern method holds the potential to optimize Apple’s provide chain and provoke a wider transformation. If the implementation with Apple Watches proceeds as supposed, the know-how firm goals to increase this course of to extra merchandise within the coming years, provides the report.

Those who have no idea, the tactic employs a 3D printing technique generally known as binder jetting to supply the system’s preliminary define, carefully resembling its precise dimension, a producing idea known as “near net shape.” The printing is executed utilizing a powdered materials, which subsequently undergoes a sintering course of involving warmth and stress to rework it into a cloth with the tactile properties of typical metal. Following this, the exact design and cutouts are milled, mirroring the steps within the earlier manufacturing course of.

Apple, in collaboration with its suppliers, has been discreetly advancing this technique for at least three years. During the current months, rigorous testing of the method has been carried out on metal casings supposed for the upcoming Apple Watch Series 9, scheduled for unveiling on September 12. It has been reported by Bloomberg that the forthcoming smartwatch will function enhanced efficiency and introduce new case shade choices, whereas sustaining a largely constant design.

This endeavor represents one of many preliminary cases of using binder jetting to scale up the manufacturing of a high-volume steel element. The resolution to make use of the Apple Watch as a trial platform for this rising know-how follows a constant pattern inside the firm. Notably, Apple launched metal frames to the iPhone two years after their introduction within the authentic Apple Watch. Additionally, this yr’s premium iPhones are set to include titanium, a yr after the fabric’s debut within the Apple Watch Ultra.

(With inputs from Bloomberg)

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Updated: 01 Sep 2023, 02:15 PM IST

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