The folks at Disney have been exploring some really interesting techniques for fabrication. Their latest is this interesting method of 3D printing with fabric.
The process is best described as an automated system for assembling laser cut layers of fabric. Their machine resembles a tiny assembly line more than a standard 3D printer.
First, a vacuum platform holds a roll of fabric with the bottom exposed. A laser cuts the shape of the object and support material from below while the vacuum holds everything in place.
Then, the laser is removed from the area and the “build platform” raises to accept the cut piece.
Next, a tool is deployed to adhere key points of the fabric to the build platform or previous layer.
via Make
