About a robot that became a 3D printer! 🖨️ A team of designers in Shanghai developed a 6-axis robotic 3D printer inspired by spiderwebs at Tongji University. The project is about merging design and fabrication processes, drawing from spider threads' biomimetic strength and structure. 🕸️ The printer utilizes a unique spindle-knot extrusion technique, enabling self-supporting structures and greater spatial flexibility than traditional layer-based 3D printing. The device features a robot from KUKA and a robotic end-effector with movable printheads, controlled by an Arduino-based system with precise temperature and extrusion controls. Despite being a work in progress, the project shows the potential of combining robotics and 3D printing. ~~  ♻️ Join the weekly robotics newsletter, and never miss any news →