Generational Systems

Generational Systems, which trades as Gene-Sys, develops accessible industrial metal 3D printers. Its technology, commercialized from Michael Knotts' master's thesis research at Auburn University, applies plastic-extrusion principles to metal: a wire-fed system with a custom feed-wire profile that uses induction heating to fully melt aluminum alloys. The stated aim is to cut the cost, build time and safety burden of metal additive manufacturing versus conventional powder-and-laser machines. The company is in pilot sales with select partners to refine its first printer.

Wire-fed induction heating instead of laser-and-powder metal printing, which removes the powder-handling hazard and lets the machine run from a standard 110V 20A outlet, putting industrial-grade aluminum printing in reach of schools, prototyping shops and makers rather than only large manufacturers.