the faces behind our research

#IamDAP: Moritz Kolter

Moritz has been a part of the DAP chair since February 2021. Before joining the chair, he studied mechanical engineering at TU Munich. Thematically, he examines the potential of streaming in the context of 3D printing. This is also the topic of his dissertation, in which he investigates the effects of streaming on business models in 3D printing. In May 2022 Moritz became the new head of the Digital Production group.

What can you tell us about the current state of research?

We are currently implementing a streaming protocol with which we can stream the data. To do this, we are using the so-called Open Vector Format, which, compared to other formats in 3D printing, allows us to send the data layer by layer. In addition, we are working on the security of the streaming to avoid piracy and the like. The latter is also the motivation behind streaming because the advantages described earlier could also be achieved simply by sending the print data digitally, but then you lack control and data security.

The Open Vector Format was co-developed by scientists of the DAP chair. Why is this format so important for additive manufacturing?

As mentioned earlier, additive manufacturing is a layer-by-layer process and therefore we not only have classic 3D data, but also so-called 2.5D data, in other words: the layers. Until now, every manufacturer has been doing their own thing: data is described and stored differently. However, this is a problem both for research and for productive operation in the industry. It often complicates the process, which leads to the development of isolated solutions. At this point, we hope that the Open Vector Format will change that, as it is open-source and optionally extensible. In fact, the whole thing is just gathering pace, because many partners in the industry are slowly understanding the added value and are helping to expedite the topic.

What about outside of work, is Netflix also very popular with you in your private life?

On rainy or lazy Sundays or even when there’s an exciting new series that I like to binge-watch. Otherwise, I like spending time in the outside world, going mountain biking in the Aachen Forest, or bouldering with friends. That also provides a good balance to the digital workday.