We’ve been following [Vik Olliver]’s progress on the μRepRap challenge with curiosity for a while now. The challenge’s purpose is to construct a 3D printer that may print characteristic sizes right down to about 10 microns – the identical characteristic measurement used within the Intel 4004 processor. On the current Open Every little thing 2026 convention, [Vik] introduced an summary of all of the progress he’s made within the final 12 months, together with printer enhancements, materials woes, and the primary multi-layer prints (presentation slides).
The movement stage has undergone some elementary enhancements just lately. The unique XY movement desk was supported on 4 flexures which allowed motion in X and Y, but in addition launched slight variations in Z – clearly an issue in a system that must be correct right down to the microns. The newest model now makes use of complementary flexures to keep up a relentless Z peak, and eliminates interference between the X and Y axes. The axis movement drivers have been additionally redesigned with parallel-bar linear reducers impressed by a pantograph, growing their usable vary from two to eight millimeters.
Relatively than extruding materials, the μRepRap makes use of an electrochemically-etched needle level to deposit UV-curable gel on the construct floor. [Vik] discovered {that a} little bit of nitric acid within the needle etching resolution gave the perimeters of the probe a little bit of a tough texture which let it maintain extra resin. He began his check prints utilizing regular 3D printer resin, but it surely seems that dissolved oxygen inhibits curing – fairly an issue for small, air-exposed droplets. Fortuitously, UV nail gel does remedy in air, and the subsequent set of exams have been printed in nail gel, together with the primary layered prints (considered one of which might be seen above, on prime of a hypodermic needle). The μRepRap can’t but print massive numbers of layers, however [Vik] did print some hinged components that may very well be folded into form.
There’s rather more within the presentation than might be lined right here, together with some fascinating ideas about the potential of 3D printing electrochemical reminiscence cells in ionic gel. Close to the top of the presentation, [Vik] listed some items of associated work, together with necroprinting and this home made micro-manipulator.
