Can additive manufacturing (AM) produce objects on a mass scale or not? It’s a common question asked by engineers. The answer, for the most part, is it depends on the AM technology being used and the part being built. Optomec, a leading global supplier of production-grade additive manufacturing systems for 3D printed metals and 3D printed electronics, has a customer that is successfully using its AM systems to mass produce parts. LITE-ON Mobile Mechanical SBG (LITE-ON) is a global contract manufacturer that uses Optomec’s Aerosol Jet technology for high-volume production of electronic devices.

LITE-ON has pioneered a 3D Direct Printing (3DP) solution that enables 3D antenna patterns and other functional electronics to be integrated into almost any mechanical structure or cover – maximizing design flexibility, ensuring optimal placement and performance, and allowing slimmer product designs.

“With the flexibility provided by Aerosol Jet technology, our 3DP systems can print sensors, antennas, and other functional electronics onto plastic components and covers as well as metal die-cast insert-molded polymer frames and even onto glass panels and ceramic materials,” said Henrik Johansson, Senior Manager, Technology Development Antennas, at LITE-ON.   “We see Aerosol Jet as a strategic component of our 3DP solution, which has enabled us to expand into new markets.”

LITE-ON first purchased Aerosol Jet technology to develop prototypes for its OEM customers, which include world leading communication device, personal care and automotive brands.   The digitally driven Aerosol Jet based 3DP process provides full design flexibility, with quick iteration and minimum lead-time for last-minute changes.

After successfully implementing Aerosol Jet in prototype environments, LITE-ON expanded its usage and has now deployed multiple production machines in Guangzhou, China, operating 24×7 printing conformal electronics onto millions of consumer devices. Since the 3DP process requires no plating or special resins, logistics are simplified and production costs are lowered.

The open architecture of the Aerosol Jet hardware allows configurations to be optimized for specific production needs. The implementation at LITE-ON leverages a series of Aerosol Jet print modules spread across multiple 5-axis motion platforms, configured to handle common smartphone and tablet form factors. Each machine can print a range of common electronics materials, at a rate of millions of units per year, enabling next generation applications in consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace, and smart IoT devices.

“LITE-ON has been an incredible strategic customer for Optomec. Their dedication and commitment was critical to proving the viability of Aerosol Jet technology in a real world 24/7 production setting,” said Mr. Dave Ramahi, Optomec President and CEO.

Optomec
www.optomec.com