LINK3D announces first integration of blockchain technology for 3D printing

"Our technology is the first of its kind and will absolutely simplify and secure 3D printing processes for all industries."

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At RAPID + TCT last week, additive manufacturing (AM) software solutions company, LINK3D announced the first ever integration of blockchain technology for AM in its flagship SaaS product, Digital Factory.

Building on the need for a traceable digital thread throughout the full AM workflow, LINK3D says the need for file integrity and traceability is a priority for AM processes. The integration will offer data governance, provenance, auditability and validation through a range of applications including:

  1. File integration, IP integrity, DRM: Blockchain technology can be used to track origination of each design file and its evolution.
  2. Facility matching / authentication: Service Bureau capability can be stored on Blockchain and orders can be pre-verified.
  3. Supply chain and logistics tracking: Once the part is shipped, the package can be tracked to ensure that it is opened by the correct parties.
  4. Real-time data from machines: Logs from machine can be stored in an immutable way for forensics during recalls and for traceability.

Most commonly used as a way of securing information for cryptocurrencies, this application of blockchain is a first for the industry. LINK3D believes the technology has the potential to “finally lace the digital thread to simplify management of AM processes – a vital component to the survival and growth of global adoption of industrial 3D printing.”

Explaining the ethos behind the launch in more detail, LINK3D CTO and Co-founder, Vishal Singh describes how blockchain integration can also help AM to become more accessible to designers, manufacturers and supply chain representatives as a necessary tool for validation and trust in a distributed and decentralised manufacturing ecosystem.

“Blockchain technology can be utilised as the backbone technology in the digital manufacturing ecosystem”, explains Singh. “Our technology is the first of its kind and will absolutely simplify and secure 3D printing processes for all industries.”