Desktop-Scale Robot Tape Manipulation for Additive Manufacturing

Project Scope

This project reimagines tape material placement using robotic manipulation to enhance precision and versatility in manufacturing. A custom-designed Tape Print Module (TPM), integrated with a robotic arm, enables complex patterns, multi-plane surfaces, and non-linear toolpaths—all on a low-cost, desktop-scale system.

By supporting materials like copper, vinyl, and polyimide, this system empowers applications in circuit printing, sensor fabrication, and 3D structures, including overhangs without supports. Affordable and accessible, it’s a game-changer for flexible electronics, smart infrastructure, and beyond—democratizing advanced manufacturing techniques for innovators everywhere.

Highlights

• Desktop-scale automated tape placement system

• Low-cost tape print module

• Circuit printing with conductive tape

• Sensor array fabrication through multiple tape placements