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Precise Simulation Releases FEATool Multiphysics 1.17.4, CFDTool 1.10.4

KOWLOON, Hong Kong, Jul 28, 2025 – Precise Simulation is pleased to announce that its easy-to-use FEATool Multiphysics simulation toolbox has been updated to version 1.17.4, with updated CAD and geometry engine, direct support for tabulated/interpolated coefficient data, and user interface (GUI) and performance improvements.

Built-in Support for Tabulated Data in Coefficients

A major new feature in FEATool Multiphysics v1.17.4 is support for non-linear tabulated and interpolated equation and boundary coefficients. That is, coefficients provided from txtcsv, and Microsoft Excel xslxslx table data can be used directly both in the toolbox and stand-alone versions of the toolbox, without writing custom user-defined functions as before.

FEATool Multiphysics with built-in Support for Tabulated Coefficient Data

Please see the corresponding documentation and simple tutorial example using a tabulated coefficient for the thermal conductivity as a function of temperature

FEATool Multiphysics toolbox for MATLAB 2025a/online and later

With the Mathworks change from a Java based Web/JavaScript based UI in MATLAB 2025a (and later), it has been found that the current toolbox UI does not perform well in this MATLAB version. It is therefore currently not recommended to use the toolbox with MATLAB 2025a, as performance is better it 2024b and earlier.

A new toolbox user interface (GUI) is in development, and scheduled to be available in a later 2.0 release, including full Python integration allowing users to use either or Python, MATLAB, or GNU Octave.

OpenFOAM and CFD Solver Updates

FEATool Multiphysics, the easiest and fastest way to get started with OpenFOAM and CFD simulations!

  • Improved Flow Mode Control: A new check-box toggle for automatic pressure constraint in CFD and flow simulation physics modes has been added. This provides users with more direct control over simulation settings, simplifying the setup for fluid dynamics problems.
  • Enhanced Error Handling for External Solvers: Users now have the option to save OpenFOAM and SU2 case/config files on error. This vital feature allows for easier debugging and troubleshooting, enabling users to inspect the solver’s state at the point of failure and refine their models more efficiently.
  • ESI/OpenCFD OpenFOAM distribution: It is recommended to use ESI/OpenCFD OpenFOAM distribution (openfoam.com) to ensure CFD solver compatibility (instead of using the OpenFOAM Foundation distribution openfoam.org)
  • Standardized SU2 Turbulence Model: The SU2 CFD solver has been updated to default to the V2003m SST turbulence model. This standardization ensures a robust and widely validated turbulence model is used by default, contributing to more accurate and reliable turbulent flow simulations.

Miscellaneous Updates

  • Update OpenCASCADE geometry engine to v7.9.1 with improved stability and handling of geometries with multiple sub-domains (for Windows and Linux systems)
  • Added setinf function (to set infinite values to specific number, analog to setnan)
  • Added solver troubleshooting section to the toolbox documentation
  • New import fea struct from MATLAB File menu option
  • Added categories to physics mode selection list, for easier UI selection
  • User interface (GUI) consistency improvements
  • Minor bug fixes

CFDTool Fluid Dynamics Simulation Toolbox

In addition to the updates to the FEATool Multiphysics toolbox described above, the simplified sister toolbox CFDTool has also been updated to version 1.10.4, streamlining the user interface (GUI) to mirror the FEATool UI, making switching between the toolboxes easier and natural.

CFDTool is a simplified version of the FEATool toolbox only featuring physics modes and functionality for fluid mechanics and heat transfer simulations. Fore more advanced, multi-physics simulations, and MATLAB m-file scripting the FEATool Multiphysics toolbox is recommended.

Easy-to-use GUI for the OpenFOAM and SU2 CFD solvers

Designed and Developed for Engineers and Researchers

  • Accurate and Efficient Simulations: FEATool Multiphysics delivers highly accurate and efficient simulations, enabling engineers to optimize designs, reduce development time, and improve product performance.
  • Expanded Application Areas: The new features and enhancements broaden the range of applications for FEATool, making it suitable for a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy, and process engineering.
  • Increased Productivity: The improved user interface and streamlined workflows enhance productivity and allow engineers to focus on their simulations rather than technical complexities.

Availability and Download

The physics simulation toolboxes FEATool Multiphysics 1.17.4 and CFDTool 1.10.4 are available right now both as stand-alone desktop apps, and also as MATLAB toolbox Add-Ons, with fully interactive GUI and cross-platform support for the Microsoft Windows, Linux, and MacOS operating systems. The toolboxes can be downloaded directly from www.featool.com/download or www.cfdtool.com/download (or installed with one-click from the MATLAB Add-Ons Toolbar).

To download and try FEATool Multiphysics, click here.

About Precise Simulation

Precise Simulation, founded in 2012, is a small and niche software developer dedicated to developing state-of-the-art and easy-to-use simulation software for product design, virtual prototyping, and research in both industry and academia.

Please visit the linked page for a list of users and references using or recommending the software.

The FEATool Multiphysics and CFDTool toolboxes are fully integrated simulation software platforms for creating virtual 3D models and simulation applications based on physical phenomena. A unique feature is the ability to account for coupled physics phenomena, and seamlessly integrate with many types of multi-physics solvers such as OpenFOAM, FEniCS, SU2 Code, and more.

FEATool Multiphysics is a complete simulation platform for fluid flow, heat transfer, structural, electromagnetics acoustics, and chemical engineering applications. Built-in interfaces and APIs enable the integration of FEATool with MATLAB, physics solvers, Computer Aided Design (CAD), and Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) tools. Simulation experts rely on FEATool Multiphysics to design and develop physics based models and deliver accurate and speedy results to their teams, manufacturing departments, test laboratories, and users worldwide.

Align’s Invisalign Palatal Expander System for Skeletal, Dental Expansion Now Available in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jul 25, 2025 – Align Technology, Inc. (“Align”) (Nasdaq: ALGN) a leading global medical device company that designs, manufactures, and sells the Invisalign® System of clear aligners, iTero™ intraoral scanners, and exocad™ CAD/CAM software for digital orthodontics and restorative dentistry, announced that Align’s Invisalign Palatal Expander System* has been notified as Class B medical device by Malaysia Medical Device Authority and is now commercially available in Malaysia for broad patient applicability, including growing children, teens and adults (with surgery or other techniques).

The Invisalign Palatal Expander System* is a modern and innovative direct 3D printed device based on proprietary and patented technology. Invisalign Palatal Expanders are intended for use in rapid expansion and subsequent holding of skeletal and/or dental narrow maxilla (upper jaw) with primary, mixed, or permanent dentition during treatment of patients.

“The Invisalign Palatal Expander System* exemplifies our commitment to advancing digital orthodontics with innovative solutions that enhance patient treatment experiences,” said David Carr, Align Technology executive vice president and managing director, Asia Pacific. “We are excited to extend the availability of the transformative Invisalign Palatal Expander system, Align’s first direct 3D printed orthodontic appliance, to even more doctors and their patients markets across the Asia Pacific region.”

The Invisalign Palatal Expander System* consists of a series of removable devices staged in small increments of movement to expand a patient’s narrow maxilla to a position determined by their treating doctor. Each direct 3D printed device is customized to the patient’s unique anatomy based on an iTero™ intraoral digital scan. A palatal expansion treatment plan and device design are then developed using Align’s proprietary AI-driven orthodontic software.

Combined with Invisalign First™ aligners, Invisalign Palatal Expanders provide doctors with a full early intervention treatment solution for Phase 1 treatment, an early interceptive orthodontic treatment for young patients. Phase 1 treatment is traditionally done through arch expanders or partial metal braces, before all permanent teeth have erupted – typically at ages 6 through 10. Invisalign First clear aligners are designed specifically to address a broad range of younger patients’ malocclusions, including shorter clinical crowns, management of erupting dentition, and predictable dental arch expansion.

“Phase 1 or early interceptive treatment accounts for 20 percent of orthodontic case starts each year and is growing,” said Dr. Mitra Derakhshan, Align Technology executive vice president, chief clinical officer, global treatment planning and clinical services. “Together with Invisalign First aligners, Invisalign Palatal Expanders provide doctors with a solution set to treat the most common skeletal and dental malocclusions in growing children. The addition of mandibular advancement features to Invisalign aligners also provides doctors with more options for treating skeletal and dental jaw imbalances and bite correction for their growing patients during their teenage years.”

The Invisalign Palatal Expander System* is available in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, India and Malaysia.

* Children shall not use device without supervision.

About Align Technology, Inc.

Align Technology designs and manufactures the Invisalign® System, iTero™ intraoral scanners and services, and exocad™ CAD/CAM software. These technology building blocks enable enhanced digital orthodontic and restorative workflows to improve patient outcomes and practice efficiencies for over 281.4 thousand doctor customers and is key to accessing Align’s 600 million consumer market opportunity worldwide. Over the past 28 years, Align has helped doctors treat approximately 20.1 million patients with the Invisalign System and is driving the evolution in digital dentistry through the Align Digital Platform™, our integrated suite of unique, proprietary technologies and services delivered as a seamless, end-to-end solution for patients and consumers, orthodontists and GP dentists, and lab/partners. Visit www.aligntech.com for more information.

For additional information about the Invisalign System or to find an Invisalign doctor in your area, please visit www.invisalign.com.my For additional information about the iTero digital scanning system, please visit www.itero.com/en-APAC. For additional information about exocad dental CAD/CAM offerings and a list of exocad reseller partners, please visit www.exocad.com.

About the Invisalign Palatal Expander System

The Invisalign Palatal Expander System is a modern, innovative direct 3D printed orthodontic appliance designed based on proprietary and patented technology. The Invisalign Palatal Expander System is intended for the orthodontic treatment of malocclusion. The system is used for the rapid expansion and subsequent holding of skeletal and/or dental narrow maxilla (upper jaw, dental arch and teeth, palate) with primary, mixed, or permanent dentition during orthopedic treatment in children or adolescents. In adults, it is to be used in conjunction with surgery or other interventions when necessary. Devices are 3D printed and are manufactured based on digital scan data from commercially available iTero™ intraoral scanners offered by Align Technology, Ltd. The devices are removable for proper oral hygiene; manufactured to custom fit each patient’s anatomy for optimal comfort and aesthetics, expanders fit comfortably in the patient’s mouth and are changed daily (no screw required).

The System is comprised of Invisalign Palatal Expanders (active expansion, each stage comes with a programmed expansion of up to 0.25mm/stage, changed daily or as per doctor’s discretion) and Invisalign Palatal Holders (copies of the last stage ​of the expansion phase designed to hold the maxilla post-active expansion and changed every 2-4 weeks as directed by the treating doctor), Invisalign Attachment Templates and proprietary 3D shape generation software. These products are not available for purchase by the general public. However, the products are available for purchase from Invisalign® trained dentists and orthodontists.

Materion Expands Semiconductor Footprint, Capabilities in Asia through Key Acquisition

MAYFIELD HEIGHTS, OH, USA, Jul 25, 2025 – Materion (NYSE: MTRN) reported that it has completed its previously announced acquisition of manufacturing assets for tantalum solutions in Dangjin City, South Korea, serving the semiconductor market.

This strategic investment expands Materion’s global footprint with a facility in Asia to better support and service global Tier I semiconductor customers and strengthens Materion’s position as a leading supplier of deposition materials.

About Materion

Materion Corporation is a global leader in advanced materials solutions for high-performance industries including semiconductor, industrial, aerospace & defense, energy and automotive. With nearly 100 years of expertise in specialty engineered alloy systems, inorganic chemicals and powders, precious and non-precious metals, beryllium and beryllium composites, and precision filters and optical coatings, Materion partners with customers to enable breakthrough solutions that move the world forward. Headquartered in Mayfield Heights, Ohio, the company employs more than 3,000 people worldwide, serving customers in more than 60 countries.

SHINING 3D Opens Office in Tokyo, Japan

HANGZHOU, China, Jul 25, 2025 – SHINING 3D, a pioneering provider of 3D digitalization solutions, is proud to announce the official launch of its Japanese subsidiary, Shining3D Technology Japan Co., Ltd. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in SHINING 3D’s global expansion, deepening its commitment to the Japanese market through enhanced local services and closer collaboration with customers and partners.

Japan, known for its cutting-edge technology and precision-driven industries, represents a key market for SHINING 3D’s advanced solutions in industrial measurement and digital dentistry. With the establishment of its local subsidiary, SHINING 3D aims to respond more rapidly to customer needs, deliver more targeted technical support, and co-develop solutions that are finely tuned to the expectations of the Japanese market.

“Establishing a local team in Japan enables us to directly engage with end-users, understand their feedback in depth, and adapt our solutions accordingly,” said Jason Shi, Director of SHINING 3D Japan. “From hardware to software, we are committed to optimizing the user experience. At the same time, we will strengthen brand communication, provide accurate technical training, and help our partners clearly position and present the full value of our product range—from cost-effective options to high-end innovations. As 3D scanning technologies expand into new sectors, our team will actively support the development of new applications and business channels across Japan.”

Shining 3D Technology Japan Co., Ltd. will serve as a regional hub, supporting diverse applications such as quality inspection, reverse engineering, and digital orthodontics and implantology. This move also reinforces SHINING 3D’s broader mission: to make 3D digitalization more accessible, efficient, and impactful across industries.

With headquarters in China and offices across the United States and Europe, SHINING 3D continues to grow its international footprint while maintaining a strong focus on local support. The launch of its Japan subsidiary underscores a long-term dedication to the market and a shared journey of innovation with local stakeholders.

About SHINING 3D

SHINING 3D has been developing, manufacturing, and democratizing high-accuracy 3D technologies for almost 20 years. The company offers accessible and high-quality 3D digital solutions to users with diverse backgrounds and industries worldwide. As a key contributor in the 3D scanning industry, SHINING 3D aims to keep nourishing and leveraging its global influence to promote the popularization of digital 3D technology. For more information, visit https://www.shining3d.com.

Ursa Major, Dyndrite, EOS, nLight Launch Alliance for American Additive Manufacturing Ecosystem

BERTHOUD, CO, USA, Jul 25, 2025 — Ursa Major has announced the formation of the Alliance for the American Additive Manufacturing Ecosystem, known as AAAME, a multi-stakeholder initiative that unites leaders across the broad ecosystem of defense, manufacturing, and technology sectors to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing for national security. Other founding members include Dyndrite, EOS, and nLight.

Created initially to elevate additive manufacturing opportunities and challenges in the aerospace and defense industrial base, the Alliance will drive innovation in standardized, secure, and scalable processes that strengthen supply chain resilience and enable rapid, mission-ready production.

“The United States cannot afford fragile supply chains subject to international economic disturbances or decade-long timelines to deliver critical national security systems,” said Dan Jablonsky, CEO of Ursa Major. “This Alliance brings together key players in the AM ecosystem to advance a more responsive and robust industrial base. It’s about aligning policy, innovation, and execution so our warfighters have what they need, when they need it.”

The Alliance is committed to accelerating additive manufacturing adoption across the Defense Industrial Base by aligning key players from government, industry, and academia. Through working groups and direct collaboration across the government space, AAAME will prioritize focus on supply chain resilience, workforce development, and the advancement of standards and innovation, with an ultimate aim of enabling advanced physics-based qualification for rapid deployment of additively manufactured systems. Alliance members support sharing of best industry practices and data, educating the workforce through hands-on workshops and virtual topic-specific collaboration sessions, and responsible sourcing as aligned with U.S. national security interests.

Organizations interested in co-signing or joining the Council can contact Ursa Major’s government relations team.

About Ursa Major

Ursa Major is an aerospace and defense company delivering flight-proven capabilities for hypersonics, solid rocket motors, in-space propulsion, and launch. Headquartered in Berthoud, Colorado, with additive manufacturing operations in Youngstown, Ohio, Ursa Major leverages advanced production techniques and flexible architectures to build systems for all domains: land, air, sea, and space. The company is revitalizing the defense industrial base for the U.S. and its allies, flying faster to accelerate delivery of critical capabilities where speed and adaptability matter most. For more information, visit https://www.ursamajor.com.

Trimble Q2 FY2025 Conference Call on Aug 6, 8AM ET

WESTMINSTER, CO, USA, Jul 25, 2025 – Trimble (Nasdaq: TRMB) will hold a conference call on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at 8 a.m. ET to review its second quarter 2025 results. The call will be broadcast live on the web at https://investor.trimble.com. Investors and participants who wish to dial into the call may do so by first registering at https://registrations.events/direct/Q4I841130. Upon registration, dial-in details will be sent via email to the registrant.

About Trimble

Trimble is a global technology company that connects the physical and digital worlds, transforming the ways work gets done. With relentless innovation in precise positioning, modeling and data analytics, Trimble enables essential industries including construction, geospatial and transportation. Whether it’s helping customers build and maintain infrastructure, design and construct buildings, optimize global supply chains or map the world, Trimble is at the forefront, driving productivity and progress. For more information about Trimble (Nasdaq: TRMB), visit www.trimble.com.

Phillips Additive Introduces InssTek’s MX-Lab, MX-Fab DED Metal 3D Printers in US

HANOVER, MD, USA, Jul 24, 2025 – Phillips Corporation has officially partnered with InssTek, Inc., a global leader in metal Directed Energy Deposition (DED), to distribute the company’s flagship systems — the MX-Lab and MX-Fab — across the United States. These advanced powder-fed metal 3D printers are now available through Phillips Additive to support research, education, and government and commercial manufacturing initiatives. 

The collaboration was showcased at RAPID + TCT 2025 in Detroit, where the MX-Lab was on display in the Phillips Additive Hybrid booth. Attendees explored InssTek’s Direct Metal Tooling (DMT) technology, offering closed-loop melt pool monitoring, open parameter control, and the ability to alloy multiple metal powders.  

InssTek’s team on site included: 

  • Dongmin “Theo” Shin, AM Technical Sales Director 
  • Ivan Dragustinovis, America’s Service Manager & Sales Support  

“Partnering with InssTek allows us to support a wider spectrum of additive innovation — especially in materials science, academics, and R&D,” said Brian Kristaponis, General Manager of Phillips Additive Hybrid. 

Precision Platforms for Powder DED Innovation 

Phillips Additive introduces InssTek’s MX-Fab and MX-Lab systems, offering high-performance metal 3D printing solutions for both production and research environments. These DED platforms expand Phillips’ additive portfolio, supporting advanced manufacturing across industry and academia. 

MX-Lab – A compact research system with six independent CVM powder feeders, ideal for High Entropy Alloy (HEA) and Functionally Graded Material (FGM) development, parameter studies, and academic research environments. 

MX-Fab – A robust industrial system with a larger build volume, higher laser power, multi-axis capability, and zoom optics for variable beam sizes, ideal for precision at scale. 

Core Technical Advantages 

  • DMT® Vision – Closed-loop melt pool monitoring for exceptional deposition quality 
  • CVM Feeder System – Powder feed rates from 0.03–2g/min with consistent multi-material support 
  • Auto-Z Height Control – Maintains nozzle distance automatically layer-by-layer 
  • Open Architecture – Enables full control over material input and build parameters for true research freedom 

Trusted by Top Institutions 

  • InssTek systems are already in place at: 
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology 
  • Johns Hopkins University 
  • University of Michigan 
  • Army Futures Command 
  • Iowa State University 
  • University of Oklahoma 
  • Brown University 

About Phillips 

With over 60 years of serving manufacturers, educators, and the U.S. government, Phillips Corporation brings unmatched experience to additive system installation, training, and support. Every InssTek system includes comprehensive onboarding and access to a responsive, U.S.-based applications team. For more information, visit https://phillipscorp.com.

About InssTek

InssTek, Inc. is a global leader in Additive Manufacturing (AM), specializing in Directed Energy Deposition (DED) technology. InssTek provides total solutions for Metal AM based on core technologies such as Multi material 3D printing, Alloy research, and Artificial joint porous coating. From product design to production, all the technologies required for customers to use InssTek’s metal printers have been developed in-house to provide an easier and more enjoyable environment for the users. For more information, visit https://www.insstek.com.

Walter Launches Drion·tec D-Spade D5142 Double-sided Exchangeable-Tip Drill

TUBINGEN, Germany, Jul 24, 2025 – With the new Drion·tec D-Spade D5142 exchangeable-tip drill, Walter AG is launching the world’s first drill of its kind with a double-sided indexable insert. The special feature: The Flank face of the first cutting edge serves as a support surface for the second – which doubles the service life of the exchangeable tip and significantly reduces the costs per metre of drilling. Designed for maximum cost efficiency, the holemaking drill is designed for Ø 12 to 32 mm and lengths from 3 to 8 × D(c) .Four lands and the Self-centring point geometry ensure high precision and Surface quality of the hole: with exact centring, straightness and diameter tolerance.

Ground and polished Chip clearance spaces optimise Chip evacuation and increase process reliability. Six Coolant outlets ensure Precision cooling on the Cross cutting edge, Main cutting edge and Circumference on both teeth. The combination of fine-grain substrate and the gold-coloured HiPIMS coating of the DS42 indexable insert enables very good Wear resistance and easy wear detection. The symmetrical design of the double-use exchangeable tips not only doubles Tool life, but also reduces the amount of carbide used per cutting edge by 45% compared to conventional drills on the market. Walter is therefore positioning the Drion·tec® D-Spade D5142 as the new standard for both cost-conscious and sustainable holemaking – particularly suitable for mass producers with steel and cast iron materials, for example in the Automotive industry, the energy sector or the rail vehicle industry. 

About Walter

For over 100 years, Walter has stood for competence and quality in the field of machining technology. The company was founded in 1919 by Richard Walter and has its headquarters in Tübingen, Germany. The portfolio includes precision tools for milling, turning, grooving, drilling and threading as well as individual special tools and technology solutions along the process chain. With production facilities in North and South America, Europe and Asia, numerous subsidiaries and sales partners, and 4,400 employees worldwide, Walter has a global presence and customers in more than 80 countries around the world. In addition to engineering expertise, a sustainable corporate strategy and a diversity approach are part of the corporate culture. Since 2022, the Frezite Group has been part of Walter, including the Frezite portfolio brand FMT, which deals with cutting tools for lightweight materials. For more information, visit https://www.walter-tools.com.

ActCAD 2025 Update 1310530 Released

REDMOND, WA, USA, Jul 24, 2025 – ActCAD 2025 New update 1310530 released based on latest IntelliCAD 13.1 engine. This is a general maintenance release with the below-mentioned fixes and improvements:

  • Implemented automatic startup for Network Server on system boot
  • Updated Aliases (command shortcuts) across all four product variants
  • Corrected right-click CUI context menu behavior for certain entities
  • Fixed certain issue with RECOVERALL command
  • Released ACTCAD 2025 NESTING with latest IntelliCAD integration
  • Added IMPORTCSV command under Map Drafter Add-ons
  • Fixed perpendicular snap issue when drawing lines between circles
  • Enabled editing of existing data extraction tables
  • Corrected behavior of “All” option in data extraction entity selection
  • Ensured attribute values are correctly extracted from various block types
  • Fixed certain dimension snapping issue related to UCS/WCS alignment
  • Resolved OSNAP perpendicular functionality
  • Restored missing layer state in DWF underlays
  • Added hidden DWFLAYER command for DWF layer control
  • Fixed certain issue in Data Extraction dialog
  • Enabled proper XLS export from Edit Data Extraction mode
  • Corrected SSGET filter to handle DXF codes
  • Added Data Extraction icon in Explorer UI
  • Fixed 3D Polyline extension preview and execution
  • Included Data Extraction summary in Explorer’s summary tab
  • Added Data Link icon to Explorer interface
  • Updated icon for Data Extraction in Explorer
  • Fixed command cancel handling to return RTCAN properly
  • Enabled deletion of attached data extractions from Explorer

The new versions are available from ACTAD download page.

About ActCAD

ActCAD brings Global Collaborated Technology Expertise to you at very affordable life-time price. ActCAD is powered by the most latest IntelliCAD 10.1a engine, Open Design Alliance Tiegha Libraries and ACIS technologies. ActCAD has many enhancements, features and commands on top of IntelliCAD core. The add-on features, express menu commands allow ActCAD to become more productive for day-to-day projects. ActCAD works very closely with IntelliCAD on Development and Quality Assurance. Thanks to our highly automated test and build systems to keep our costs minimal. IntelliCAD was started in 1999 and has over 1 million trusted users now using IntelliCAD world-wide. ActCAD is a commercial member with active role in Release Committee and Board of Directors of IntelliCAD. For more information, visit http://actcad.com.

Dusty Robotics to Accelerate File-to-Field Construction Execution by Integrating FieldPrinter 2 with Leica Absolute Tracker AT500

MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA, USA, Jul 24, 2025 — Dusty Robotics, the construction robotics company that bridges the gap between design and field execution, today announced that it will use the Leica Absolute Tracker AT500, the most portable laser tracker from Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division. When paired with the Dusty FieldPrinter 2, the AT500 delivers significant improvements in setup speed and ease of use while maintaining Dusty’s industrial-grade 1/16″ accuracy standard that is essential for mission-critical environments like data centers, healthcare facilities, and advanced manufacturing. For projects where precision is non-negotiable, the Hexagon-powered solution reinforces Dusty’s position as the only viable option for automated layout, now with added operational efficiencies that further distance it from conventional total station accuracy.

This enhancement strengthens Dusty’s mission to transform construction execution into a seamless file-to-field process. By connecting design teams with field crews, Dusty enables better collaboration and communication, ensuring that digital intent is faithfully executed in physical reality.”

The AT500 reduces the friction between digital models and field execution,” said Tessa Lau, CEO and cofounder of Dusty Robotics. “We’ve seen teams significantly reduce setup and repositioning time with this integration. This means less time managing equipment and more time focused on the actual construction work that delivers value to projects.”

Designed for challenging environments, the Leica AT500 offers a compact form factor and robust durability in a more user-friendly package. Now equipped with the innovative lightweight LMF-embedded (LMF-e) interface, the Leica AT500 offers seamless connectivity to embedded Linux operating systems. This breakthrough enables dynamic trajectory correction for the Dusty FieldPrinter 2 without relying on high-end industrial Ethernet real-time feature pack, streamlining operations and reducing complexity. For contractors, the combination provides the speed and reliability needed for today’s fast-paced construction schedules.

The Leica AT500 is the longest-range Absolute Tracker offering an industry-leading measurement volume of up to 320 meters in diameter. Engineered for demanding environments, it boasts an IP54 certification for protection against dust and water exposure, and features a controllerless design to streamline setup. The built-in hot-swappable batteries ensure uninterrupted operation, while the PowerLock system enables the Tracker to automatically lock on and track the robot even if the measurement process is blocked or interrupted. Simply put, the Leica AT500 is the ideal solution for construction jobsite work, surpassing any previous laser tracker in performance and usability.

“The integration of the AT500 with Dusty’s FieldPrinter 2 gives construction teams a practical solution for accelerating jobsite setup and improving workflow efficiency,” said Chris Jundt, Product Sales Manager – Trackers, North America, Hexagon. “This combination addresses real challenges faced by field professionals who need to quickly translate digital designs into physical execution.”

The AT500 integration also enhances Dusty’s floor elevation capabilities, enabling teams to measure flatness and floor deviations with the efficiency required for mission-critical applications in healthcare and industrial settings. This expanded functionality demonstrates how Dusty continues to evolve beyond layout into a comprehensive design-field collaboration platform.

Dusty Robotics will now offer the AT500 alongside its existing tracker options for FieldPrinter 2 deployments, reinforcing its commitment to connecting design teams with field execution through tools that are fast, reliable, and user-friendly.

To learn more about Dusty Robotics and its File-to-Field construction solutions, visit dustyrobotics.com.

About Dusty Robotics

Dusty Robotics is the best solution to ensure design integrity in the field through automated layout and a streamlined file-to-field communication process. Dusty delivers a combination of hardware, software, and services that fit seamlessly into existing construction work by printing digital models directly on the jobsite floor with 1/16″ accuracy based directly on Revit or AutoCAD models. Dusty has enabled contractors to print more than 100 million square feet of layout across thousands of buildings and is trusted by leading general contractors such as Mortenson, McCarthy, and Skanska as well as trade contractors in framing, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. Learn more at www.dustyrobotics.com.

About Hexagon

Hexagon is the global leader in precision technologies at any scale. Our digital twins, robotics and AI solutions are transforming the industries that shape our reality. 

Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has approximately 24,800 employees in 50 countries and net sales of approximately 5.4bn EUR. Learn more at hexagon.com and follow us @HexagonAB.