Aurora Labs locks down Chinese patent for 3D printing tech

ASX-listed 3D metal printing technology player, Aurora Labs, has taken a significant step towards protecting its groundbreaking Multi-Layer Concurrent Printing, or "MCP" 3D printing technology after being granted a patent in China.

The Perth-based company recently tweaked its 3D metal printing business model from one of an aspiring manufacturer and direct distributor to that of a less financially burdensome model that is based on partnerships, technology licencing and royalties.

Aurora’s strategic pivot enables it to largely sidestep the substantial capital investment associated with the engineering, manufacturing and distribution of the 3D printers, allowing it to fully focus on being a technology outfit.

The company says its MCP technology that is now the subject of the Chinese patent is an evolution of the powder-bed fusion process involved with laser additive manufacturing or 3D printing.

China is the first country to grant a patent for Aurora’s MCP technology.

In addition, patent applications in other countries are at various stages of the approval processes.

Aurora Labs Chief Executive Officer, Peter Snowsill said: “It’s encouraging to see Aurora on the path to securing the ground-breaking technology. MCP is a unique innovation and we are pleased to have it in our extensive technology portfolio.”

Snowsill took the reins at Aurora after serving as interim CEO during a period of restructuring and cost cutting not helped by the economic fallout of the Coronavirus pandemic restrictions.

Under the shift in its commercial strategy, the company is looking to partner with original equipment manufacturers and other major industry players in the 3D metal printing sector, representing a lower risk and lower capital pathway to market.

Aurora is aiming to grow the business by leveraging its technology off the back of its partners’ capacity to assume or share the responsibilities for metal 3D printer manufacturing, sales and distribution.

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