In-process sensor array for real-time additive manufacturing
This technology embeds a network of sensors directly inside a 3D printing or other manufacturing workstation to measure the geometry of a part as it is being built, layer by layer. The sensors continuously collect shape and dimensional data, and an onboard computer evaluates in real time whether the part is forming correctly or accumulating errors. Rather than waiting until a part is finished to inspect it, the system flags geometric defects while they can still potentially be corrected. The design is modular and self-contained, meaning it can be integrated into existing manufacturing setups without a complete equipment overhaul.
What you could build
A bolt-on in-process quality monitoring module for additive manufacturing equipment that alerts operators to geometric errors mid-build; target buyers are aerospace, defense, and industrial manufacturers using metal or polymer 3D printing who face high scrap costs or strict dimensional tolerances.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense and aerospace contractors in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads with additive manufacturing cells, as well as shipbuilding and naval maintenance facilities, would have direct operational interest in reducing scrap and improving part traceability.
Readiness: Concept
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Christopher Williams, Tadeusz Kosmal, Sam Pratt
- Filed
- Patent pending — filed June 13, 2025
- Status
- Application
- Publication number
- US20250383650A1
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.