Idaho Patent of the Month – June 2025
The U.S. Patent No. 12325185 unveils a pioneering 3D printing system that combines liquid and solid materials to build stronger, more versatile components in a single pass.
The patent, titled ‘Method and apparatus for continuous composite three-dimensional printing’, introduces a way to extrude a liquid matrix and a reinforcing solid fiber simultaneously. The liquid cures around the fiber as it is deposited. This creates parts that are both lightweight and exceptionally durable.
Innovative Composite Extrusion
The invention by Continuous Composites Inc. integrates continuous fiber within a flowing resin stream during printing. The fiber runs through the center of the resin, then a curing system hardens the material immediately. Layer by layer, it produces composite structures with unmatched strength-to-weight ratios.
Real‑World Impact
This method promises industrial-scale gains. Builders of aerospace, automotive, or infrastructure parts can now print complex, load‑bearing shapes faster. Engineers gain precision and reduce waste by combining reinforcement and matrix deposition in one step.
Why It Matters Now
Traditional composite manufacturing involves multiple steps: layup, curing, trimming. This patent streamlines the process into a seamless, continuous workflow. That cuts costs and allows rapid iteration-a major win for prototyping and low‑volume production.
Future Potential
This system could support on‑site fabrication in remote locations, repair works, and even future space missions. By enabling stronger, lighter structures made on demand, it shifts how engineers approach design and supply chain hurdles.
The new patented process marks a leap in additive manufacturing. Continuous, composite-rich parts are now within reach-faster, lighter, stronger, and smarter.
Learn More:
Are you developing new or improved products, or thinking of applying for a patent? Did you know your research work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? To find out more, please check out our free online eligibility test.
Feel free to book a quick teleconference with one of R&D Tax specialists if you would like to learn more about R&D Tax Credit opportunities.
Who We Are:
Swanson Reed is one of the largest Specialist R&D Tax Credit advisory firm in the United States. With offices nationwide, we are one of the only firms globally to exclusively provide R&D Tax Credit consulting services to our clients. We have been exclusively providing R&D Tax Credit claim preparation and audit compliance solutions for over 30 years.
Swanson Reed’s Idaho office provides R&D tax credit consulting and advisory services to Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Idaho Falls, and Pocatello.
Swanson Reed hosts daily free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please click here or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.
