Guides

#3DStartup: Phase3D and its Real-Time Inspection Solution for 3D Printing

A key issue in the additive manufacturing industry is the quality of the final parts. Depending on the 3D printing technology used and the intended application, this could be more or less affordable. Furthermore, when it comes to powder bed-based…

Phase3D
3Dnatives

A key issue in the additive manufacturing industry is the quality of the final parts. Depending on the 3D printing technology used and the intended application, this could be more or less affordable. Furthermore, when it comes to powder bed-based systems, it is essential to have a broad understanding of the technology. This goes from the design of the models to the procurement of the final parts, in order to minimize errors. In this context, Chicago-based startup Phase3D has developed a solution for real-time inspection of the manufacturing process. This system is compatible with Powder Bed Fusion technologies, as well as with binder jetting. We spoke with the CEO to learn more about this solution and how it can detect anomalies during additive manufacturing to obtain the best quality.

3DN: Could you introduce yourself and your connection to 3D printing?

My name is Niall O’Dowd and I am the CEO and founder of Phase3D. I have been fascinated by 3D printing since 2010 when I first had access to the technology. My preoccupation with 3D printing since then has been twofold — both as a hobby and as an industrial manufacturing tool. Growing up I was obsessed with CAD and seeing my first sculpture design come to life using a desktop 3D printer (MakerBot Cupcake) for my high school art show was incredible. I designed a multi-piece assembly (pictured below) and it took several design and print iterations to get the fit right. I did not realize it at the time, but this experience of going from imagination to reality so quickly and fluidly proved to be the start of my journey with additive technologies.

Niall O’Dowd, CEO of Phase3D.

My passion for designing sculptures turned into a love for engineering, leading me into a B.Sc. in mechanical engineering. During my undergraduate degree, additive technologies advanced rapidly in nature and scope across a range of industrial applications. Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes proved to be an invaluable resource for my robotics classes at Rochester Institute of Technology.