Bremen, renowned for its aeronautics and space industry, is now home to ESA BIC Northern Germany’s newest startup: NebulaForm. The company was co-founded by Prof. Dr. Dr.-Ing. Yilmaz Uygun and Serkan Özkan from Constructor University, with the mission to harness large-scale 3D printing for space applications. Their cutting-edge Delta-3D printer can create components up to 3 meters tall, and they plan to expand the printing capability to 24 cubic meters, enabling more efficient production of space mission components. NebulaForm's innovations go beyond Earth. They are developing a zero-gravity 3D printer to be tested in space. Traditional 3D printers rely on gravity, but NebulaForm’s rotating-axis design is built to function in the vacuum of space. With ESA BIC’s network and support, they aim to bring this technology to space missions by next year. The team is also exploring collaborations with various space agencies. They plan to have a prototype ready by the fall of 2024, which will be tested in future space missions. Their ambition is to streamline on-demand manufacturing in space, transforming logistics for long-duration missions.

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• Nebula Form, the Young Startup Bringing 3D Printing to Space - NebulaForm, supported by ESA BIC Northern Germany, is pioneering the future of space manufacturing through large-scale 3D printing technology.

NebulaForm, a startup led by Prof. Yilmaz Uygun at Constructor University, is taking a giant leap towards revolutionizing space manufacturing. Based in Bremen, the team has developed the world’s largest industrial 3D printer, capable of producing parts up to three meters tall. However, their ambitions don’t stop there. Uygun and his team are working on a 3D printer that can operate in zero gravity, potentially making large-scale construction in space a reality. The ability to manufacture in space could dramatically reduce the cost and logistical challenges of sending heavy equipment into orbit. “3D printing in zero gravity would be a major breakthrough,” explains Uygun, highlighting the potential for this technology to help build habitats on the Moon or Mars. Their unique rotating 3D printer, designed to function without gravity, has already garnered interest from space agencies, with trials expected to take place as early as next year. NebulaForm’s roots trace back to Uygun’s early projects in the wind energy sector, where the team developed a 3D printer to produce complex wind turbine parts. Over time, their expertise evolved, leading to the creation of the world’s largest Delta-3D printer. This innovation caught the attention of the aerospace industry, and the startup was subsequently accepted into the ESA Business Incubation Centre (BIC) Northern Germany. The ESA BIC provides NebulaForm with vital support, including €50,000 in funding and access to a network of aerospace professionals. Uygun and his team see Bremen as an ideal location for their startup, citing the region’s strong aerospace industry, visionary foundations, and robust support for startups. The future is bright for NebulaForm as they continue to develop their technology, with plans to expand their printer’s capabilities to 24 cubic meters. As Uygun optimistically puts it, "We are just at the beginning, but if we do things right, this could become something big."

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• 3D Printing in Space: NebulaForm's Revolutionary Technology - The WFB Wirtschaftsförderung Bremen GmbH highlights NebulaForm’s innovative approach to zero-gravity 3D printing and its potential impact on space exploration.
• Linkedin Source - same as above

As humanity looks toward the Moon and Mars for potential settlement, one key question arises: How do we build sustainable habitats in space? A team of researchers at Constructor University in Bremen is developing the tools to make this possible. Featured on buten un binnen, the team is working on two cutting-edge 3D printers that could one day build homes on extraterrestrial surfaces. Led by Prof. Yilmaz Uygun, the team has created two types of 3D printers: one designed for use in space's zero-gravity environment, and the other intended for large-scale construction projects on planetary surfaces. These printers are capable of producing the necessary structures for space habitats, potentially using materials found on the Moon or Mars. This innovation was showcased in the buten un binnen regional magazine on July 6, 2024, where the researchers detailed their groundbreaking work. The video explains how 3D printing could revolutionize space construction, reducing costs and allowing for the creation of customizable, sturdy habitats for future space explorers. The project is not only important for space missions but also paves the way for new technologies that could transform construction on Earth. By developing printers that operate in challenging environments, the team is advancing both space exploration and the future of construction.

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• How to Build Houses in Space? Bremen Develops the Tools - The buten un binnen segment highlights the innovative 3D printing technology developed by researchers at Constructor University, designed for building homes on the Moon and Mars.

A major milestone has been reached by Prof. Yilmaz Uygun and his research team from Constructor University Bremen. Their startup, NebulaForm, has been accepted into the European Space Agency’s Business Incubation Centre (ESA BIC) in Northern Germany. With this support, NebulaForm aims to leverage their massive Delta-3D printer for manufacturing aerospace components and develop a 3D printer specifically for use in space. The ESA BIC Northern Germany, based in Bremen, provides two years of tailored training and financial backing of up to €50,000. “The incubator allows us to grow within the unique challenges of the space industry and further develop our technology,” says Uygun. NebulaForm’s 3D printer is the largest Delta-3D printer in the world, capable of printing components up to 1.5 meters in radius and 3 meters in height. Initially developed with internal funds, the project later received backing from the Kieserling Foundation and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action through the EXIST program, supporting university spin-offs. With space industry parts typically produced in small volumes or as custom pieces, Uygun and his partner, Serkan Özkan, believe 3D printing offers more efficient, faster, and cost-effective solutions. The team plans to enhance their printer further by incorporating new materials like carbon fibers and high-performance plastics that can withstand temperatures above 300°C. Their goal is to expand the print volume to 24 cubic meters. "With that," says Uygun, "we could print an entire car." NebulaForm is also developing a space-ready 3D printer that operates without gravity, making it ideal for manufacturing in space. Traditional 3D printers rely on gravity to build layers, but NebulaForm’s rotating axis design eliminates that requirement, making it ideal for use in space. A space agency has already expressed interest in testing this technology, which could happen as soon as next year. Uygun notes, "If it works in space, we could open up new business opportunities on Earth." Students at Constructor University also benefit from this innovation, as Uygun integrates the latest research into his courses. "Teaching and research go hand in hand," he says, with students like Altin Loshi and Idriz Pelaj from the Robotics and Intelligent Systems program directly involved in NebulaForm’s progress.

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• 3D Printing for Space Applications: NebulaForm’s Groundbreaking Success - Prof. Yilmaz Uygun and his team at Constructor University are leading the way in space manufacturing innovation, with their groundbreaking 3D printing technology supported by ESA BIC Northern Germany.

A major success for the research team led by Prof. Dr. Dr.-Ing. Yilmaz Uygun from Constructor University Bremen: their startup "NebulaForm" has been accepted into the European Space Agency's (ESA) Business Incubation Centre (BIC) in Northern Germany. The team plans to utilize their world’s largest Delta-3D printer to create specialized components for the aerospace industry and also develop a space-based 3D printer for extraterrestrial applications. The ESA BIC provides a two-year incubation program, including specialized training and financial support of €50,000. "The incubator allows us to grow within the space industry's unique demands and advance our technology," says Uygun. The startup has already made significant progress with their large-scale 3D printer, which boasts a printing radius of 1.5 meters and a height of up to 3 meters. The project has been supported by the Kieserling Foundation and later by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. Space manufacturing often requires custom-made parts or low-volume production. Uygun and his partner Serkan Özkan believe 3D printing can address these needs more efficiently and cost-effectively. With plans to expand the print area to 24 cubic meters and explore advanced materials like carbon fibers, NebulaForm aims to reshape the production of aerospace components. Additionally, the team is working on a space-specific 3D printer that could operate in microgravity. A space agency has already shown interest, and the technology could be tested in space as early as next year.

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• Research Results: Unique Space Components via 3D Printing - Prof. Yilmaz Uygun and his team at Constructor University are pushing the boundaries of 3D printing, leading to innovations in space manufacturing.

The research team led by Prof. Dr. Dr.-Ing. Yilmaz Uygun from Constructor University Bremen has achieved significant success with their startup, NebulaForm, which has been accepted into the ESA Business Incubation Centre (BIC) Northern Germany. The team is utilizing their world’s largest Delta-3D printer to manufacture critical components for the aerospace industry, and they are developing a 3D printer specifically designed for space applications. The ESA BIC, based in Bremen, provides startups with two years of support, including customized training and financial assistance of up to €50,000. “The incubator allows us to grow and meet the specific challenges of the aerospace industry, advancing our technology,” explains Uygun. NebulaForm’s large-format 3D printer can print components up to 1.5 meters in radius and 3 meters in height. Initially funded through internal resources, the project later received support from the Kieserling Foundation and the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action through the EXIST program, which helps university spin-offs. The printer was recognized for its groundbreaking innovation in additive manufacturing, winning the Bremen 3D Ideas Award. Space manufacturing often requires custom parts or small-batch production. Uygun and his partner Serkan Özkan believe that 3D printing offers a more efficient, faster, and cost-effective solution for aerospace components compared to traditional methods. They plan to further develop their printer by integrating new materials, such as carbon fibers and high-performance plastics, capable of withstanding temperatures over 300°C. Their goal is to expand the printer's capacity to 24 cubic meters, making it large enough to print something as complex as a car. NebulaForm is also working on a smaller, rotating 3D printer designed for use in space. Traditional 3D printers rely on gravity to build layers, but this new design eliminates the need for gravity, allowing it to function in microgravity environments. Interest has already been shown by a space agency, and the first test could take place in space as early as next year. "If the printer proves successful in space, it could open up new business opportunities here on Earth," says Uygun, who also collaborates with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA as a research affiliate. Students at Constructor University are directly involved in these innovations, with Uygun integrating the latest research into his teaching. "Teaching and research go hand in hand," says Uygun. Two students, Altin Loshi and Idriz Pelaj, from the Robotics and Intelligent Systems program, are also part of the NebulaForm team.

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• Creating One-of-a-kind Pieces for Space Travel Using 3D Printing - Prof. Yilmaz Uygun and his team at Constructor University are leading the way in applying 3D printing to space travel, with their innovative Delta-3D printer supported by the ESA BIC Northern Germany.

NebulaForm, the brainchild of Prof. Dr. Dr.-Ing. Yilmaz Uygun from Constructor University Bremen, has achieved remarkable success by being accepted into the European Space Agency’s Business Incubation Centre (ESA BIC) Northern Germany. The startup focuses on utilizing the world’s largest Delta-3D printer for producing essential components for the aerospace industry, while also developing a new 3D printer capable of functioning in space. The ESA BIC Northern Germany, located in Bremen, provides startups with up to two years of tailored support, including €50,000 in funding and specialized training. "The incubator allows us to grow within the unique demands of the aerospace industry and further develop our technology," says Uygun. NebulaForm’s large-format 3D printer is a prime example of how fundamental research can lead to industrial applications. With a print radius of 1.5 meters and a height of up to 3 meters, the machine was initially developed using internal resources. Support from the Kieserling Foundation followed, and later, the project received additional backing from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action through the EXIST program. NebulaForm’s innovation was recognized with the Bremen 3D Ideas Award for excellence in additive manufacturing. Uygun and his partner Serkan Özkan are confident that their 3D printer can revolutionize the production of customized aerospace equipment, making manufacturing faster, more cost-effective, and optimized for weight. Their ongoing plans include further development of the printer, such as the integration of advanced materials like carbon fibers and high-performance plastics, which can withstand temperatures exceeding 300°C. The print capacity is also set to expand to an impressive 24 cubic meters. "With that capability," Uygun suggests, "we could even print an entire car." NebulaForm is also working on an innovative small-format printer with a rotating axis, designed for space applications. Traditional 3D printers rely on gravity to build layers, but this principle doesn't work in microgravity. Interest has already been shown by a space agency, with tests for this printer possibly taking place next year. "If the printer succeeds in space, it will open up new business opportunities here on Earth as well," says Uygun, who is also a research affiliate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA. Students at Constructor University are also benefiting from these innovations. "We always integrate our current research into teaching and discuss the results with the students," says Uygun. "Education and research go hand in hand." Two students, Altin Loshi and Idriz Pelaj, from the Robotics and Intelligent Systems program, are directly involved in NebulaForm's projects.

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• One-of-a-kind Components for Space Travel Using 3D Printing - NebulaForm, supported by ESA BIC Northern Germany, is pioneering 3D printing solutions for space, led by Prof. Yilmaz Uygun and his team from Constructor University.

Bremen is home to one of the most impressive 3D printing innovations in the world: the largest industrial Delta-3D printer capable of printing meter-sized parts. This massive machine is the brainchild of Prof. Dr. Dr.-Ing. Yilmaz Uygun and his research team at Constructor University Bremen. It was featured in a recent episode of Forschung Aktuell on Deutschlandradio, where listeners got an in-depth look at how this groundbreaking technology is advancing industrial manufacturing. With a height of over four meters and a print radius of 1.5 meters, this 3D printer is already being used in fields like wind energy to create turbine components, and has promising applications in the aerospace sector. By enabling the rapid and cost-effective production of complex, large-scale parts, the printer represents a leap forward for industries that require custom or low-volume production. In the podcast, Uygun explains the technical capabilities of the 3D printer, including its innovative Delta design, which allows for unprecedented precision and scale. The printer has already drawn interest from various industries, and the team is exploring new materials such as high-performance plastics and carbon fiber for future projects. Additionally, the printer could have an even larger printing capacity of up to 24 cubic meters. Listeners of the podcast learned how Uygun’s team is continuously refining the 3D printing process, integrating real-time quality control and developing new ways to improve printing speed without sacrificing accuracy. With the potential to redefine industries like aerospace and prototyping, this 3D printer is poised to be a game-changer.

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• 3D Printing in XXL: Bremen’s Giant 3D Printer Produces Meter-Sized Parts - Deutschlandradio’s Forschung Aktuell explores how Bremen’s 3D printing innovations, led by Prof. Yilmaz Uygun, are transforming industrial manufacturing.

The future of prototyping is being reshaped by the world’s largest industrial Delta-3D printer, developed by Prof. Dr. Dr.-Ing. Yilmaz Uygun and his research team at Constructor University, formerly Jacobs University. Supported by the Kieserling Foundation, the four-meter-tall printer, named "Honeycomb," offers unparalleled efficiency in producing complex, large-scale prototype components for industries like spare parts, machine building, and wind energy. Honeycomb stands over four meters tall with a print radius of 1.5 meters and a height of 2.5 meters, making it one of a kind. Its Delta construction allows the printer head to move in any direction, enabling the printing of exceptionally large and complex parts. Currently, Honeycomb is being used to print parts for vertical wind turbines, with further projects across different industries already in the pipeline. The machine’s current printing speed is 5 kg per hour, depending on the complexity of the part. Uygun and his team are exploring improvements in both speed and materials. They are developing a pellet extruder to replace traditional filament materials like PLA, PET, and ABS. "This shift will drastically reduce the carbon footprint while lowering costs and securing supply chains," Uygun explains. In addition to these advancements, the team is focusing on quality assurance with a camera-based system that monitors the printing process. Honeycomb will soon have the ability to correct print deviations in real time, enhancing precision and reducing errors. The team is also researching the use of multiple print heads with varying nozzle sizes to improve printing speed without sacrificing quality. Honeycomb’s honeycomb structure allows for reduced material usage while maintaining strength and stability, making it both efficient and sustainable. With several potential pilot projects lined up, the future looks bright for Uygun’s team and their innovative technology.

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• 3D Printer Redefines Prototyping: The Honeycomb 3D Printer - Prof. Yilmaz Uygun and his team at Constructor University have built the world’s largest industrial Delta-3D printer, paving the way for new prototyping capabilities.

During their time at Jacobs University, Serkan Özkan and Prof. Dr. Dr. Yilmaz Uygun team identified the need for advanced manufacturing technology to construct their unique vertical axis wind turbine. The complexity of the design and the need for rapid production led them to explore various additive manufacturing methods. After thorough research and feasibility studies, the team discovered that delta printers, known for their speed and ability to print organic, complex shapes, would be the best solution for their project. This realization sparked the start of NebulaForm’s journey into the 3D printing world, setting the stage for the creation of their cutting-edge industrial-grade printers. Starting to aim built tools for production, became an aim to produce new technologies in additive manufacturing!

In August 2018, Serkan Özkan started at Jacobs University to work on renewable energy projects under Prof. Dr. Dr. Yilmaz Uygun’s supervision. The focus was on researching and developing commercial renewable technologies, specifically related to wind turbines and other sustainable energy solutions. During this time, we decided to build a large industrial 3D printer to construct our unique vertical axis wind turbine. The complexity and necessity for advanced technology drove us to research additive manufacturing. After conducting feasibility studies, we identified delta printers as the best solution for fast and organic structures like our wind turbine. This decision marked the start of our 3D printing development journey.