Chinese researchers have revolutionized additive manufacturing with a groundbreaking 3D printing technology that fabricates complex millimeter-scale objects in 0.6 seconds – faster than the blink of an eye. The DISH (Digital Incoherent Synthesis of Holographic Light Fields) technology, developed by Tsinghua University's team led by Chinese Academy of Engineering academician Dai Qionghai, addresses longstanding speed-precision challenges in micro-scale manufacturing.
Published Thursday in Nature, the breakthrough enables high-resolution printing at 333 cubic millimeters per second, achieving structural details as fine as 12 micrometers. Traditional methods requiring hours for similar precision are now outpaced by this optical innovation that manipulates holographic light fields to create 3D structures instantaneously.
"DISH technology eliminates the need for point-by-point scanning," explained co-author Wu Jiamin. "By projecting complete 3D light intensity patterns, we achieve simultaneous full-structure fabrication while maintaining exceptional precision."
The system's simplicity enhances commercial potential – requiring only a flat optical surface without complex container-probe alignment. Early applications target photonic computing components and smartphone camera modules, with future potential in flexible electronics and biomedical engineering.
This advancement positions China at the forefront of rapid micro-manufacturing technologies, offering global industries new possibilities for prototyping and production efficiency. As research continues, DISH could redefine timelines for developing advanced micro-robotics and customized medical implants.
