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How a Chinese start-up is scaling 3D printing from sneakers to robots
Yahoo Finance· 2025-12-28 09:30
Core Insights - The robotics industry in China is experiencing significant advancements, highlighted by Xpeng's humanoid robot performance, showcasing lifelike features enabled by PollyPolymer's bionic muscles [1] - PollyPolymer has established R&D partnerships with over 20 leading robotics companies in China, indicating a collaborative approach to innovation in the sector [2] - The company has developed specialized materials for humanoid robots that meet critical performance criteria, including high elasticity and superior wear resistance, with a modified molecular structure allowing for a 300% elongation rate [3] Company Overview - PollyPolymer, founded in 2017, is based in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, and has developed proprietary 3D printing technology that enhances printing speed by up to 100 times compared to traditional methods [4] - The company has around 10,000 material formulations and has achieved a production capacity of 2 million pairs of 3D-printed shoes, which is expected to double by 2026 [5] - Shoes currently account for 60% of PollyPolymer's total revenue, with the company aiming to increase the market share of 3D-printed shoes from less than 0.1% to 10% within seven years [5] Product Applications - PollyPolymer supplies components such as highly elastic soles and lightweight vamps to brands like Cole Haan, Skechers, and Peak Sport Products, and also produces entire shoes printed as a single piece [6] - The bionic muscles developed for Xpeng and joint cushioning kits for UBTech Robotics demonstrate the company's versatility in providing advanced materials for various robotics applications [3][6]
QIDI Max4: Flagship Large-Scale 3D Printer Debuts at Formnext 2025 in Germany
Globenewswire· 2025-11-14 12:12
Core Insights - QIDI has launched its new flagship 3D printer, the QIDI Max4, at Formnext 2025, which features the largest print size among consumer-grade enclosed printers while maintaining high precision [1][18] Product Specifications - The QIDI Max4 has a build volume of 390×390×340mm, which is 55% larger than its predecessor, the Max3, making it suitable for large industrial parts and customized prototypes [3] - It includes a heated bed with a full-surface silicone thermal layer for uniform temperature distribution, ensuring strong first-layer adhesion and stable temperature control [5] - The printer features a high-flow hotend capable of 40mm³/s for faster print speeds and is compatible with various materials, including PLA, ABS, and carbon fiber-reinforced nylon [6] Innovative Features - The QIDI Max4 introduces the "Polar Cooler," an Active Toolhead Cooling System that improves heat dissipation to prevent clogs, along with a second-generation Active Chamber Heating system maintaining temperatures up to 65°C [7] - It incorporates a closed-loop motor system for the XY-axis, enhancing precision and stability, and features an ultra-stable Z-axis design to minimize layer lines [10][12] - The printer is equipped with an AI recognition system that monitors prints in real-time, automatically pausing and alerting users to issues, thus reducing manual supervision [14] User Experience Enhancements - A redesigned interface and large screen improve user interaction, while the QIDI BOX allows for multi-color and multi-material printing, supporting up to 16 colors simultaneously [16] - The printer's design enables high-quality, multi-material printing of complex objects, catering to both artistic and engineering needs [17] Market Positioning - The QIDI Max4 is positioned to be a competitive large-format 3D printer, emphasizing enhanced efficiency, superior performance, and a smarter user experience [18]
Hands-On 3D Printing: Flashforge AD5X Arrives at Every Micro Center Store
Globenewswire· 2025-09-16 12:30
Core Insights - Flashforge is expanding its U.S. retail presence by launching the AD5X multi-color FDM printer at all 29 Micro Center stores starting September 1, 2025, allowing customers to experience the product in person [1][3] - Micro Center, recognized as the 1 Tech Retailer in America by PCMag Readers' Choice 2024, has been serving over 22 million tech enthusiasts since its founding in 1979, enhancing Flashforge's brand visibility among mainstream consumers [3] - The AD5X printer features significant upgrades over its predecessor, the Adventurer 5M, including an integrated IFS system for four-color printing, high-speed capabilities of up to 600 mm/s, and compatibility with various materials like TPU 64D, catering to makers and small-batch production [5][7] Company Overview - Flashforge, established in 2011, focuses on delivering advanced and accessible 3D printing solutions, with a diverse product portfolio that includes FDM, MJP, and resin-based technologies [7] - The Adventurer 5M has been a global best seller on Amazon, and Flashforge products are available in over 70 countries, serving millions of users worldwide [7]
Flashforge Expands U.S. Reach: AD5X Multi-Color FDM 3D Printer Arrives at All 29 Micro Center Stores
Globenewswire· 2025-09-16 12:30
Core Insights - Flashforge has expanded its partnership with Micro Center, making the Flashforge AD5X multi-color FDM 3D printer available in all 29 Micro Center stores across the U.S. starting September 1, 2025, enhancing customer access to the product [1][3] Company Overview - Flashforge is a globally recognized 3D printing brand founded in 2011, dedicated to delivering cost-effective products and solutions, with a philosophy of "MORE ADVANCED, MORE ACCESSIBLE" [7] - The company has a comprehensive product portfolio covering FDM, MJP, and resin-based 3D printing technologies, and its Adventurer 5M desktop FDM printer has been a global best seller on Amazon [7] Product Details - The AD5X is the latest model in Flashforge's Adventurer Series, succeeding the Adventurer 5M, featuring significant upgrades in performance and user experience [5] - Key features of the AD5X include an integrated IFS system for four-color printing, high-speed printing capabilities of up to 600 mm/s, and compatibility with various mainstream materials like TPU 64D [5] Retail Partnership - Micro Center, recognized as the 1 Tech Retailer in America by PCMag Readers' Choice 2024, has been a strategic partner of Flashforge for over a decade, serving over 22 million tech enthusiasts [3] - The partnership marks a significant milestone in Flashforge's retail expansion in the U.S., increasing its brand presence among mainstream consumers [3]