University of Twente Researchers Develop Support-Free 3D Printing Overhang Method

Executive Briefing

• Introduces a wave-propagation-based path-planning strategy enabling 90-degree overhangs without structural supports
• Eliminates need for extra filament and post-processing removal, reducing waste and print time significantly
• Works on standard 3-axis FDM printers with no special materials required, lowering barriers for hobbyists
• Already deployable via forks of popular slicers PrusaSlicer and OrcaSlicer, making it accessible immediately
• Published in Additive Manufacturing Letters, the research marks a major step toward the 3D printing 'holy grail'