Wednesday 24 September 2025
The quest for a more accessible and affordable way to manufacture complex objects has led researchers to a fascinating breakthrough. By leveraging open-source software and everyday materials, they’ve created a volumetric additive manufacturing (VAM) platform that could democratize innovation.
The OpenCAL project, developed by students at the University of California, Berkeley, uses computed axial lithography (CAL), a technique that builds objects layer-free, unlike traditional 3D printing methods. This approach allows for faster print speeds and reduced reliance on wasteful support structures.
To make VAM more accessible, the team designed their platform to be modular and easy to assemble using commercial-off-the-shelf components. The system consists of a transparent vial, a rotational element, and an electrical component that uses a Raspberry Pi microprocessor. This setup not only reduces the cost but also makes it easier for users to modify and upgrade the system.
Another significant challenge addressed by OpenCAL is the availability of VAM materials. Most existing resins are expensive or difficult to obtain, which limits their adoption. To overcome this hurdle, the researchers developed a custom resin formula that can be produced at a low cost. This achievement enables anyone with basic chemistry equipment to create their own resin.
The OpenCAL platform has already demonstrated its capabilities by fabricating complex geometries within 90 seconds. The team is now working on refining the system’s mechanical properties and exploring new applications for VAM in fields such as medicine and aerospace engineering.
The democratization of innovation through accessible manufacturing technologies could have far-reaching implications. It might enable individuals and small organizations to create innovative products that were previously only feasible for large corporations with significant resources. This shift could lead to a more diverse range of solutions and accelerate the pace of technological progress.
In addition to its technical advancements, OpenCAL has also fostered a community-driven approach to innovation. The project’s Discord server has already attracted over 150 members who share knowledge, provide feedback, and collaborate on new designs. This collective effort will be crucial in further developing and refining the platform.
As OpenCAL continues to evolve, it holds great promise for transforming the way we design and manufacture objects. By making VAM more accessible and affordable, this technology could empower individuals and organizations to pursue innovative projects that were previously out of reach. The potential implications are vast, and it will be exciting to see how this platform develops in the future.
Cite this article: “OpenCAL: Democratizing Innovation through Accessible Volumetric Additive Manufacturing”, The Science Archive, 2025.
Volumetric Additive Manufacturing, Opencal, 3D Printing, Computed Axial Lithography, Layer-Free, Modular, Raspberry Pi, Microprocessor, Resin Formula, Democratization Of Innovation.
