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Beyond the hype: How additive manufacturing offers modern robotics flexibility

For robotics and autonomous systems, the demands on design, production, and time to market are more intense than ever. OEMs and machine builders are constantly seeking ways to innovate more quickly, iterate more efficiently, and bring specialised solutions to complex challenges.

01/08/2025 15:33:00

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While the general hype around 3D printing has calmed down, its practical application in specific, high-stakes industries like drone manufacturing reveals its real transformative power.

Alexandre d’Orsetti, CEO of Sculpteo, explains how the journey of Dronavia, a French drone safety solutions provider, offers interesting insights on how to leverage additive manufacturing for tangible business advantages.

The modern robotics dilemma: Agility vs scalability
Traditional manufacturing processes often present a dilemma: the need for agility in design iteration clashes with the high costs and lead times associated with tooling for scalability. This issue is particularly acute for companies such as Dronavia, which specialises in critical drone safety systems, including parachutes, circuit breaker systems, and geofencing solutions.

Each drone model, each new regulation, each specific client requirement demands a tailored approach, yet the end product needs to be robust, reliable and, eventually, mass-produced. This is where additive manufacturing – specifically technologies like Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) with materials like Nylon PA12 – is useful to bridge the gap.

Read the full article in DPA's August 2025 issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.