The U.S. Army and Marines collaborate for a test project that would let soldiers 3D print drone parts on the spot with a tablet-based catalog.

While 3D printing has infiltrated a number of different industries, the military complex has been particularly fond of the potential this technology has to offer. From mission-specific drones to a 3D printed grenade launcher called R.A.M.B.O., the U.S. Army is constantly looking for ways to integrate additive manufacturing into its day-to-day operations.

Now, the U.S. Army is partnering up with the Marine Corps to test a new project that would allow soldiers to 3D print drone parts directly from a tablet-based catalog. The software library will enable military units to order and produce components for unmanned aircraft systems.

This way, troops will be able to produce and adapt drones for specific missions. Instead of waiting days for the proper UAV to arrive, these soldiers will be able to have one ready in just a few minutes or hours.

Combining Aviation Technology With 3D Printing to Enhance Military Capabilities

The collaborative project between the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) and Marine Corps focuses on fusing aviation technology, additive manufacturing, and software development.

After reaching out to Marine Corps, the two military branches began working on the software catalog that allows troops to select and print parts on the spot. The ARL researchers were also able to streamline the development process after utilizing feedback from Marines.

“Additive manufacturing, or 3-D printing, is maturing as a viable means to produce mission-essential parts or equipment at the point of need,” said ARL engineer Larry “LJ” R. Holmes Jr.

Overall, the goal seems to be giving these troops the advantage on the battlefield by facilitating mission-specific customization and quick production capabilities. Essentially, the ARL wants soldiers to be able to enter mission parameters and have a 3D printed drone ready within 24 hours.

“Things like additive manufacturing with materials, artificial intelligence and machine learning, unmanned systems technologies, these will enable us to bring together the capabilities that will allow the future Soldiers and Marines the decisive edge that they need in the battlefield,” said Elias Rigas, a division chief in ARL’s Vehicle Technology Directorate.

The U.S. Army Research Laboratory recently released a YouTube documentary about the project. This video showcases how the research team developed the idea of on-demand 3D printing with the suite of software tools.

Check out “Documentary: 3-D Printed Drones” below.

Source: U.S. Army