ASX-listed 3D metal printing group, Aurora Labs, has been granted another patent for a key part of its Multi-Layer Concurrent Printing, or “MCP” technology, this time in Japan. Only last month the company locked down a patent in China, while patent applications in other countries, including in the USA and Australia, are also at various stages of their respective approval processes.
Aurora’s 3D printing technology effectively “prints” or manufactures metal items on the spot from a metal powder feedstock, which is a potential revolution in the spare parts industry in particular that relies on expensive and time consuming supply chains to get an item to site.
Aurora Labs Chief Executive, Peter Snowsill said: “The granting of this core patent in another significant jurisdiction is an important step to securing our MCP technology, as protection of our intellectual property is foundational to our technology development pathway and commercialisation strategy.”
This year the Perth-based company switched its 3D metal printing business model from one of an aspiring manufacturer and direct distributor to that of a less financially burdensome operation based on partnerships, technology licencing and royalties.
It is now looking to license its technology and sidestep the CAPEX and OPEX burdens of being an engineering, manufacturing and distribution outfit.
With a saddlebag of patents under its belt, Aurora is looking to set up alliances with established manufacturers and other major industry participants in various countries to leverage its 3D printing technology off the back of its would-be partners’ capacity to manufacture and distribute.
Aurora has already struck a couple of partnerships, one with Sweden-based rolled aluminium manufacturer, Granges AB, and another with Advisian Digital, a consulting arm of engineering, procurement and construction stalwart Worley Ltd.
Aurora’s MCP technology allows for the 3D printing of multiple layers of powders in a single pass, rather than printing layer upon layer as per other additive manufacturing processes.
The company has just closed an oversubscribed share purchase plan raising $1 million.
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