Single-part foam with continuous stiffness and density
This technology describes a method for 3D printing foam-like polymer structures where the density and porosity can be precisely controlled and varied across the object — denser in some regions, more porous in others — all in a single print. The process works with high-viscosity liquid materials, including composites that embed liquid metal particles directly into the polymer foam matrix. The result is a single printed part that can simultaneously serve structural, cushioning, thermal, or electrical functions depending on where you are in the object. Think of it as giving engineers the ability to print a material that transitions smoothly from rigid to soft, or from insulating to conductive, without gluing or assembling multiple components.
What you could build
Customizable impact-absorbing or multi-functional structural components for aerospace, medical implants, or wearable devices — bought by defense contractors, orthopedic device manufacturers, or advanced athletic equipment companies needing parts that vary in stiffness or conductivity across their geometry.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense primes and aerospace suppliers in Northern Virginia and the Hampton Roads corridor, plus medical device manufacturers, would have interest in functionally graded printed components for structural or implantable applications.
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
- Eric Markvicka, Spencer Pak, Michael D. Bartlett
- Filed
- Patent pending — filed August 5, 2025
- Status
- Application
- Publication number
- US20260034721A1
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.