If you are a vehicle manufacturer dealing with slow production cycles and high material waste — this project developed WayFASTER machines that reduce processing times and improve material usage. This allows for a more flexible response to supply chain shocks.
Ultra-Fast Laser Production Lines for Flexible and Sustainable Industrial Manufacturing
Imagine a printer that works at lightning speed but can cut, drill, and add metal layers with perfect precision. Instead of slow, wasteful old-school machines, this tech uses high-speed lasers and lightweight frames to make parts faster. It's like upgrading from a slow manual typewriter to a high-speed digital press for metal parts.
What needed solving
European manufacturers face global supply chain instability and inefficient, environmentally harmful production methods that lack the flexibility to respond to sudden market shocks.
What was built
Developed designs for WayFASTER machines, including a dedicated laser blanking machine and a novel EHLA 3D system, supported by two patent applications.
Who needs this
Who can put this to work
If you are an aerospace supplier dealing with strict quality requirements and long lead times — this project developed extreme high-speed laser material deposition (EHLA) that enhances end-product quality and precision.
If you are a fabrication shop dealing with inefficient, environmentally damaging cutting methods — this project developed laser blanking and micro-drilling tools that provide a sustainable alternative to conventional processes.
Quick answers
What is the cost or price of these laser systems?
Based on available project data, specific pricing and cost structures for the WayFASTER machines are not provided.
Can this be scaled to a full industrial production line?
Yes, the WaySTRONGER integration concept is specifically designed to embed these high-speed technologies into existing manufacturing ecosystems to enhance resilience and flexibility.
What is the IP status and are there licenses available?
The project has already filed two patent applications related to the new machine concepts developed during the first phase.
How does this integrate with current digital factory setups?
The WaySTRONGER concept combines mechanical and digital innovations to ensure seamless integration into modern production lines.
What is the timeline for market availability?
The project runs from 2024-01-01 to 2026-12-31, with experimental validation planned for the second period.
Who built it
The consortium is heavily industry-driven, with 12 industrial partners representing 75% of the group. With 7 SMEs involved and a footprint across 6 countries, the project is strongly positioned for commercial uptake rather than just academic research, leveraging a mix of 3 research centers and 1 university.
Contact IDEKO S COOP in Spain for partnership and licensing inquiries.
Talk to the team behind this work.
Contact us to identify the specific patent-holding partners for laser blanking and EHLA technology.