3D Systems
"From Idea to Object"
Rock Hill, South Carolina additive manufacturing company founded 1986 by Chuck Hull; makes industrial, dental and healthcare 3D printing systems.
3D Systems is an American additive manufacturing company headquartered in Rock Hill, South Carolina, founded in 1986 by Chuck Hull, the inventor of stereolithography and the STL file format. The company is publicly traded and describes itself as the first commercial 3D printing manufacturer, having introduced the SLA-1 stereolithography system before expanding into a broader portfolio of printers, materials and software.
Its printer lineup spans stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), direct metal printing (DMP) and MultiJet Printing technologies, supported by more than 100 qualified materials including plastics, metals, composites, waxes and rubber-like compounds. The Figure 4 Production series integrates robotic arms for automated part transfer and inspection, and software products including 3D Sprint, 3DXpert and Manufacturing OS handle print preparation and production-floor management. Applications include aerospace and defense, automotive, medical and dental devices, bioprinting, jewelry, foundries, semiconductor tooling, and rail and truck manufacturing.
3D Systems distributes and supports its systems in more than 68 countries through an authorized partner network, and its Application Innovation Group provides reverse engineering, organic 3D modeling and print-service consulting for industrial and healthcare customers.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
Figure 4 Production
High-throughput modular photopolymer 3D printing system with integrated robotic automation.
Figure 4
Scalable, modular, fully-integrated projector-based 3D printing platform for functional prototyping through direct digital production of end-use plastic parts.
SLA 750 / SLA 825 Dual
High-speed, large-format stereolithography (SLA) 3D printers delivering large, accurate resin parts with up to 200% higher throughput.
SLS 380
Selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printer for production of durable end-use nylon/plastic parts.
DMP Flex / Factory 350
Direct Metal Printing (DMP) systems for high-quality metal parts; Flex 350 for flexibility, Factory 350 for 24/7 production.
Contact 3D Systems
WEBSITE
http://www.3dsystems.comPHONE
803.326.3900HEADQUARTERS
United States
Company Facts
Founded
1986
Primary Role
Manufacturer
Company Size
-
Primary Region
North America
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
-
RobotToday Weekly September 28 – October 2, 2026
AMD buys World Labs for $8.2 billion, Tesla lines up $30 billion in credit, Boston Dynamics reveals a new Atlas hand, Figure melts its F.02 fleet, and IDC counts 25,000 humanoids shipped in H1.
Recent Developments in South Korea's Physical AI Sector Highlight Key Innovations
This week, South Korea's physical AI sector saw significant advancements, including a collaboration between Semifive and Mobilint on outdoor robotics AI chips. Aidin Robotics joined a Doosan-led cobot initiative, while Hanwha Ocean and Korea Expressway Corp. signed agreements for shipbuilding robots and highway automation. These developments are crucial as they reflect South Korea's commitment to enhancing automation in various industries. The $7.2 million multi-agent autonomous-manufacturing project led by SKPack and the successful KOSDAQ IPO of Brills, which raised approximately $17 million, further underscore the growing investment in physical AI technologies. Looking ahead, stakeholders should monitor the progress of these projects, particularly the ongoing work on AI chips and the integration of robotics in manufacturing and infrastructure. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI Funding & Investment Humanoids Physical AI AI Aidin Robotics Brills
Exploring OMRON's Advanced LD Mobile Robots and Their Impact on Automation
In Episode 264 of The Robot Report Podcast, Miguel Garcés Moreno, the product marketing manager for OMRON Industrial Automation Europe, discusses the company's next-generation LD mobile robots. He emphasizes the importance of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) in transforming modern factory floors with flexible and fully automated intralogistics systems. Garces Moreno's expertise in industrial automation, AI vision, and motion control highlights the significance of integrating advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency. The collaboration with WiBotic for wireless charging solutions further underscores OMRON's commitment to increasing the uptime and safety of robotic fleets, which is crucial for manufacturers aiming to optimize their production processes. Listeners should keep an eye on OMRON's developments in AMRs and their partnerships, particularly with WiBotic, as these innovations could redefine intralogistics and factory automation. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Artificial Intelligence Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) Industrial Robots Markets / Industries News Opinion
CSi Palletising Introduces Affordable s-Pal Robotic Palletiser for Medium-Sized Businesses
CSi Palletising has launched the s-Pal robotic palletiser, an entry-level solution priced at €95,000. This system features a FANUC industrial robot and is designed for medium-sized businesses in the FMCG and CPG sectors. Pre-orders began on October 1st, with initial deliveries expected in early 2027. The s-Pal offers three variations with options for left-hand, right-hand, or dual infeed, making it a flexible choice for users. Its lean design focuses on essential features for efficient palletising while maintaining high quality and reliability, backed by a standard 3-year warranty. The system is user-friendly, allowing a single operator to manage it effectively. Looking ahead, CSi plans to offer the s-Pal for lease starting mid-2027. As a predefined solution, it promises quick processing of quotations and orders, with guided installation instructions for self-installation. Customers can also opt for professional installation by CSi’s team, ensuring support throughout the process. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Industry News
Hitachi and Fanuc Collaborate to Launch Physical AI Solutions for Manufacturing
Hitachi and Fanuc have established a strategic partnership aimed at developing and commercializing physical AI systems tailored for manufacturing. Initial testing will occur at Hitachi's factories in Japan's Ibaraki region, with broader deployment anticipated to commence in fiscal 2027. The collaboration seeks to automate tasks that currently rely on skilled labor, enhancing productivity and addressing labor shortages. This partnership is significant as it combines Hitachi's expertise in physical AI and operational technology with Fanuc's advanced industrial robots and AI capabilities. The goal is to create systems that can adapt to varying production conditions and tasks requiring human judgment. The initial applications will focus on parts picking and production changeovers, with plans to expand across multiple industries, including semiconductors and automotive. Looking ahead, Hitachi and Fanuc will leverage their global customer bases to implement these technologies across diverse sectors starting in fiscal 2027. The companies aim to continuously improve their systems by learning from real production data, which could lead to more efficient and adaptable manufacturing processes. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Business & Markets Physical AI Fanuc Hitachi Industrial Robots Japan
Industrial Companies Embrace Smart Systems for Bee Conservation Efforts
An increasing number of industrial companies are engaging in bee conservation, driven by ecological responsibility and sustainability strategies. These companies do not need to be high-tech firms to contribute; the technological range includes industrial robotic systems and affordable open-source solutions for workplace training. The involvement of various industries in bee protection highlights a growing awareness of environmental issues and the importance of biodiversity. By integrating smart systems, companies can enhance their sustainability efforts while also potentially benefiting from improved workplace environments. Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how these initiatives evolve and whether more companies will adopt similar strategies. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Allgemein Anwendungen & Lösungen
Industrial Companies Embrace Smart Systems for Bee Conservation Efforts
An increasing number of industrial companies are engaging in bee conservation, driven by ecological responsibility and sustainability strategies. These efforts are not limited to high-tech firms; a range of technological solutions is available, from industrial robotic systems to affordable open-source options for workplace training. The significance of this trend lies in the growing recognition of the role bees play in ecosystems and agriculture. By integrating bee conservation into their operations, companies can enhance their sustainability profiles while contributing positively to environmental health. Looking ahead, it will be important to monitor how these initiatives evolve and whether more companies adopt similar practices. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Allgemein Anwendungen & Lösungen
Dürr Introduces Four New EcoRS Generation 2 Robots for Automotive Paint Shops
Dürr has unveiled four new industrial robots tailored for automotive paint shops, with payload capacities ranging from 20 kg to 150 kg. The EcoRS Generation 2 series is designed for various applications, including sealing, cleaning, and material handling, and features a reach of up to 3,100 mm. This standardized platform aims to streamline paint-shop automation planning and maintenance. The introduction of the EcoRS Generation 2 robots is significant as it establishes a standardized solution for sealing applications, enhancing process quality and availability while reducing complexity throughout the equipment's lifecycle. Martin Wurst, product manager at Dürr, emphasized the benefits of this new platform for customers, particularly in achieving consistent seams across vehicle bodies. Looking ahead, Dürr's focus on integrating robot mechanics, control systems, and application technology is expected to improve path accuracy and operational flexibility. The redesigned EcoRS platform, with its internal component relocation, not only minimizes interference but also simplifies cleaning and reduces space requirements. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Inbolt Secures $12.5M Funding to Enhance AI Vision for Industrial Robotics
Inbolt has successfully raised $12.5 million to advance its AI-driven 3D vision software tailored for industrial robots. This funding will support the company's expansion into the U.S. and Asia-Pacific markets, as well as its entry into data centers and electronics manufacturing. The significance of this funding round, led by Shift4Good with contributions from Bridges Climate Transition Partners, BNP Paribas Développement, and Ora Global, brings Inbolt's total funding to $34 million. The company aims to enhance its operations in the U.S. following the establishment of a Detroit office in 2026, targeting sectors such as automotive and electronics manufacturing. Inbolt's software enables robots to adapt in real-time to changes in their environment, addressing issues like part misalignment and tooling wear. As the demand for more intelligent robotic solutions grows, Inbolt's hardware-agnostic approach positions it well for future developments in industrial automation. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI AI Funding & Investment Physical AI 3D vision BNP Paribas Développement Bridges Climate Transition Partners
Inbolt Secures $12.5M Funding to Enhance Industrial Robots' Vision and Intelligence
Inbolt has announced a successful funding round of $12.5 million, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of industrial robots. This funding will support the company's expansion into the US and APAC markets, as well as its entry into data centers and electronics manufacturing. The significance of this funding lies in Inbolt's innovative technology that enables industrial robots to see, think, and adapt in real time. This advancement allows robots to master various processes, parts, or stations, thereby increasing efficiency and versatility in manufacturing environments. Looking ahead, Inbolt's total funding has now reached $34 million, with participation from notable investors including Shift4Good, Bridges Climate Transition Partners, BNP Paribas Développement, and Ora Global. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Inbolt Secures $12.5 Million to Enhance Industrial Robots with Vision and Intelligence
Inbolt has successfully raised $12.5 million in funding to enhance industrial robots with real-time vision and intelligence capabilities. The funding round was led by Shift4Good, with participation from Bridges Climate Transition Partners, BNP Paribas Développement, and Ora Global, bringing Inbolt's total funding to $34 million. This funding is crucial as it will support Inbolt's expansion into the US, particularly following the opening of its Detroit office in 2026, and its entry into new sectors such as data centers and electronics manufacturing. Inbolt's technology addresses the limitations of traditional industrial robots, which often struggle with part misalignment and tooling wear, leading to costly downtime. Looking ahead, Inbolt's innovative combination of 3D vision and AI software positions it to significantly improve automation across various industries, including automotive and electronics. The company is already deployed in over 100 factories worldwide, and its recognition as a rapidly growing startup highlights its potential impact on the future of industrial automation. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Innovation Works Venture Expo 2026: 58 Pittsburgh Startups Pitch to Investors
58 health, deep tech and robotics startups pitched at Innovation Works Venture Expo 2026 in Pittsburgh. Full company list, program and 2025 funding data.
Stratasys at IMTS 2026: GM Scales Additive to 20+ Plants
Stratasys is rolling additive out across 20+ GM plants while Toyota prints robot grippers. Booth build data, the F870, and where the cost case breaks.
IMTS 2026 Preview: Record Orders and the Automation Story
IMTS 2026 opens in Chicago with 1,788 exhibitors and record H1 machine tool orders. What the USMTO data says about automation, and the booths to see.
China’s Dexterous Hand Industry, 2026 Part 3 — The Players
Five vendor archetypes, MIR’s composite top ten, eight company profiles and six field deployments — every firm linked to the RobotToday supplier directory.
China’s Dexterous Hand Industry, 2026 Part 2 — The Technology
Linkage, tendon, direct drive or hybrid — and why hardware is converging while the DL1–DL5 manipulation scale decides who wins. Part 2 of 3.
China’s Dexterous Hand Industry, 2026 Part 1 — The Demand Picture
MIR Databank puts China dexterous hand shipments above 30,000 units in 2026, yet only 3.5% of 2025 demand came from factory production. Part 1 of 3.
WRC 2026 Robot Systems: 149 Companies That Build Robots
149 of the 248 classified WRC 2026 exhibitors build finished robots. 93 build humanoid or legged machines. The audited humanoid sales number is one unit.
WRC 2026 Exhibitor Map: 248 Robotics Companies Mapped
We classified 248 WRC 2026 exhibitors with the RobotToday taxonomy. Motion & Actuation leads at 75 companies, Humanoid at 72, and compute stays thin at 12. (Modified 2026-08-27)
WAIC 2026: Embodied Intelligence Enters Industrial Deployment Era
WAIC 2026 in Shanghai (July 17–20) saw 200+ embodied intelligence companies, 300+ live robots, and first confirmed humanoid deployments in logistics and pharmacy. RobotToday engineering analysis.
