Rivelin Robotics, supported by Dstl expertise, has created
microfactory technology that automates the slow, risky manual
finishing of 3D printed parts.
The robots have human‑like precision, which means they can
deliver faster, cheaper and more reliable components.
This innovation boosts UK operational resilience by enabling
on‑demand manufacturing for defence while driving industrial
growth at home and expanding internationally across Europe and
the United States.
It also addresses a critical vulnerability: the reliance on
manual finishing, which introduces delays, variability, and
safety risks.
Currently, additive manufactured components require hand
finishing to remove excess material and imperfections before use
– a process that is slow, inconsistent and costly. Rivelin
Robotics has solved this challenge with proprietary control
systems that give industrial robots human-like dexterity and
perception, enabling them to finish parts faster and more
accurately than manual methods.
The system handles complex geometries across metals, polymers,
and ceramics, eliminating the economic penalties of traditional
hand-finishing. The defence implications are significant. For
example, naval operations often face long delays waiting for
spare parts or incur high costs for local machining. Rivelin's
microfactories enable on-demand manufacturing, reducing supply
chain dependencies and saving taxpayer money. This capability
strengthens operational resilience while supporting UK industry.
Dstl's
technical expertise and UK Defence and Security
Accelerator funding have been pivotal in turning Rivelin's
concept into reality. Today, Rivelin has sold micro factories to
5 customers and expanded from aerospace, medical, automotive, and
energy sectors into defence, with a growing international
footprint across Spain, France, Germany and the United States.
