GOVPH

Additive Manufacturing Makes Waves in the Science Fair Held in General Santos City

By Zalda R. Gayahan

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‘3d printing is not here to replace conventional manufacturing processes…. It is here to complement,’ says Engr. Jose Bernardo L. Padaca III in his presentation for the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) during S&T Summit, held on October 12, 2022, as one of the highlights of the 2022 Regional Science and Technology Week celebration of the DOST XII (SOCCSKSARGEN).

Engr. Jose Bernardo L. Padaca III talks about the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) at the S&T Summit held during the 2022 Regional Science and Technology Week celebration of the Department of Science and Technology – Region XII

After two years of holding S&T activities online due to the effects of Covid-19, the 2022 RSTW of DOST XII is back and the entire DOST system is taking the opportunity to bring technologies and services face-to-face to as many stakeholders as possible, especially those in the regions.

Visitors of the DOST-MIRDC booth inquire about the technologies and services offered, specially of the agency’s newest facility, the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen).

AMCen, as presented by Engr. Padaca, is the premier hub that develops next-generation manufacturing engineers. It is posed to be the country’s leading research center in the field of 3D printing, focused on enhancing capabilities in design, materials development from local sources, and testing and prototyping of products for additive manufacturing. As such, AMCen is fostering collaborative relationships among the government, industry, and academe.

Engr. Padaca presented the seven components of AMCen’s services.

With all these capabilities of AMCen, it has already implemented several research and development projects in partnership with the industry, academe, and other government agencies. Engr. Padaca cited as examples the following R&D projects: (1) development of a prototype casing for a transponder used for monitoring tuna catch and tracing fishing vessels; (2) development of a prototype improvised explosive device (IED) disruptor which disarms explosive devices, in effect hindering attempts of terrorists; (3) development of a prototype filter column for radiation-grafted absorbents for wastewater, which mitigates heavy metal contamination; (4) development of a lightweight observer Bluetooth emitter (LOBE) and embedded acoustic recognition sensor (EARS), both intended for devices for predictive maintenance; (5) development of a manufacturing strategy using 3D-printed parts to create patterns used in sand casting for the production of components for a local electric kick scooter; and (6) investigation into the suitability of acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) as a material for 3d-printed statue, which allowed the AMCen team to create the very first ever, and the tallest, monument of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, which now stands at the DOST Compound in Gen. Santos Ave., Bicutan, Taguig City.

‘Dr. Jose P. Rizal: The Filipino Scientist’ is the first and tallest 3d printed statue of the Philippine national hero. The 12.5-feet statue is made from acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), one of the research and development initiatives of the AMCen, under the DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center.'

Engr. Padaca made the talk even more interesting by enumerating the exciting applications of 3d printing, such as in hybrid manufacturing, architecture and transport, aerospace, automotive, and medical applications.

One might wonder where the AMCen is headed with all these capabilities and offerings. In his talk, Engr. Padaca revealed AMCen’s plans for the coming years. AMCen will focus on four key areas – manufacturing, medical, construction, and consumer goods.

In closing, Engr. Padaca informed the audience that AMCen will continue to engage in R&D to come up with solutions to the nation’s pressing concerns. AMCen, in the pursuit of its goal of being a national center of excellence for additive manufacturing, will proactively advocate the integration of AM technologies in the academe and the industry. Engr. Padaca stressed that AMCen will make its services available to everyone so that the advancement of Filipinos’ skills in additive manufacturing will greatly contribute to the country’s growth in the area of science, technology, and innovation.

DOST-MIRDC’s BUHAWI is Proof of the Distinct Ingenuity and World-Class Talent of Filipinos, Says DND Top Executive

 by Kai H. Negado

The DOST Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) held the BUHAWI Stakeholders’ Dialogue on October 5, 2022, at the Acacia Hotel Manila. Attended by both the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) and the Department of National Defense’s (DND) top executives, Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and Officer-in-Charge Senior Undersecretary Jose C. Faustino, Jr., this event saw the continued partnership between the two government agencies responsible for science, technology, and innovation, and human security and national defense.

Also present at the event were representatives from the country’s defense sector, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine Navy, the Philippine Army, and the Philippine Air Force, along with partners from the industry.

Developed in partnership with the Philippine Navy’s Naval Research and Technology Development Center (NRTDC) and the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines (MRSP), the project entitled ‘Building a Universal Mount for Heavy-Barrel Automated Weapon Integration’ or BUHAWI resulted in a technology which performed better when compared to an Israeli-developed weapons technology – proving further that we can develop our own technologies which are much cheaper, will help generate jobs, boost the local economy, and lessen import dependency.

During his welcome remarks, DOST-MIRDC Executive Director Robert O. Dizon reiterated the Center’s determination in taking the challenge of supporting the DND’s Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Program very seriously, citing the recently approved R&D project ‘Controller Operated Battle-Ready Armament’ or COBRA, which is much like the BUHAWI but intended for use and adoption by the Philippine Army.

DOST Secretary Solidum emphasized in his speech that project BUHAWI is a successful program, and will be the trigger for future collaborations between DOST and DND as ‘the DOST believes and it shares the DND’s vision of a more self-reliant defense posture.’  With this project, the Secretary believes that building a self-reliant defense for the country is already well within our reach. Further pushing for the adoption of the BUHAWI technology, the DOST Secretary implored DND Officer-in-Charge Senior Undersecretary Faustino that the Philippine Navy adopt the BUHAWI, and for DND to approve the counterpart fund to further develop the technology to a land-based one through project COBRA.

Meanwhile, DND Undersecretary Faustino, upon taking the stage to deliver his speech, announced on the spot that the counterpart support is already approved while giving a thumbs-up – this garnered a round of applause from the audience. Undersecretary Faustino praised the DOST’s ability to always find ways, and stated that project BUHAWI is ‘proof of the Philippines’ distinct ingenuity and the world-class talent of Filipinos.’  He further stated that the DND is looking forward to the full implementation of BUHAWI into all of their compatible naval assets, throwing its full support behind the upcoming project COBRA and its unprecedented success.

Spirits were high during the event, with partners from the country’s defense forces presenting their agencies’ various technological requirements and processes addressed to both DOST and partners in the industry. The MRSP and Metalworking Industries Association of the Philippines (MIAP) also took to the stage to present the capabilities of the local manufacturing industry, followed by DOST-MIRDC’s Chief for Technical Advisory and Business Development Section, Ms. Girlie M. Millo, who discussed the BUHAWI’s technology transfer requirements and processes.

This dialogue was set to push for the adoption of the BUHAWI technology, and to provide a platform to discuss possible future collaborations between its stakeholders. In concluding the event, DOST-MIRDC Deputy Executive Director Engr. Jonathan Q. Puerto and BUHAWI’s project leader, underscored the next step of the project which is the transfer of the BUHAWI technology to the Philippine Navy. The DOST, along with the DND, the Philippine Navy, and the MRSP are all excited to move forward and fulfill the vision of a truly patriotic and independent defense sector.

DOST Premieres PhilCAM 2022, Convenes Stakeholders to Accelerate Philippine Manufacturing Industry through Additive Manufacturing

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“Allow us to help you turn ideas into reality and turn these realities into a productive and profitable business.”
This was Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr.’s affirmation of support on behalf of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), for the advancement of the Philippine manufacturing industry through its Advance Manufacturing Center (AMCen) during the first Philippine Conference on Additive Manufacturing (PhilCAM) 2022 held on September 29-30.

PH Additive Manufacturing Hub

Established through the partnership of the DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) and the DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI), AMCen is one of the newest facilities under the DOST. DOST-MIRDC leads the Research on Advanced Prototyping for Product Innovation and Development using Additive Manufacturing Technologies for having the AMCen Fabrication and Prototyping Laboratory, while DOST-ITDI takes the lead for the Development of Multiple Materials Platform for Additive Manufacturing under the AMCen MatDev Laboratory.

The establishment of AMCen harnesses the possibilities of AM to improve the manufacturing process to benefit micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Since its launch in 2021, AMCen has spearheaded product solutions and development for various sectors with its technical capabilities and trained engineers. Simultaneously, AMCen is building a pool of experts skilled in AM through the conduct of training and seminars for the industry and academe.
DOST, moreover, envisions AMCen being recognized as the leading science, technology, and innovation hub in the ASEAN region.

Growing with Counterparts

The allied government departments shared the significance of AM through its integration into their plans and programs, such as the National Economic and Development Authority’s (NEDA) Philippine Industrial Strategy and Plans on Additive Manufacturing; the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Manufacturing Roadmap and Innovation Strategy on Additive Manufacturing; the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Philippine Agricultural Mechanization Program.

Industry Partners

The representatives from manufacturing, health and medical devices, defense and marine, and construction and architecture industries delivered their presentations about 3D printing applications and their importance to their respective fields.

Program Launchings

The activity also showcased three program launches for the progression of AM offerings in the country.

Two strands under the AMCen education formation scheme are introduced to increase the awareness of students in the AM field at a young age. First, the pilot testing of the National AM Curriculum for Senior High School STEM

Education which is currently offered at the University of the Philippines. The second strand is the development and implementation of AM-specialized courses for undergraduate and graduate degree programs with the help of higher education institutions (HEIs).

AMCen also launched its end-to-end digital transformation called the AMCen Integrated Online System (AIOS) platform accessible through the AMCen’s website, which will make the hub’s technologies and services conveniently available for clients nationwide.

Prospects of PH Additive Manufacturing

Dr. Rigoberto Advincula, a Balik Scientist and an AMCen steering committee member said, “A road map, if not executed or not traveled, is just a map.”
The crafted Philippine AM roadmap through the DOST-PCIEERD last 2021 was revisited, reviewed, and updated on Day 2 of the PhilCAM. This re-evaluation workshop involved attendees from key priority industries that include consumer goods, construction, health and medicine, manufacturing, and academe.

Establishment of Sectoral TWG

AMCen operates based on the guidance of its steering committee. The group deliberates, discusses, and plans how the center effectively attains its vision.
In line with the AMCen community expansion, a sectoral technical working group, composed of the key industry players, will be established once Phase 2 of the program is executed starting January 2023.

Tour at AMCen Facilities

The participants had the chance to visit the state-of-the-art 3D printing equipment housed at the AMCen Fabrication and Prototyping Lab and the Materials Development (MatDev) laboratory after each day’s program.

Reach Out to AMCen

AMCen encourages industries and academe to collaborate and be part of their ecosystem. Visit the websites and Facebook pages of DOST-MIRDC and AMCen to learn more about AMCen’s partnerships and activities.

Representatives from the industry, academe, and government supported the PhilCAM 2022 held on September 29-30, 2022, at the Titanium Auditorium of the DOST-MIRDC at Gen. Santos Ave., Bicutan, Taguig City.

DOST-MIRDC, AMCen, And Leave A Nest Philippines Gather Partners To Support Growth Of Innovation Community

 by Kai H. Negado

The Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen), the national technology hub for additive manufacturing located in the compound of the Department of Science and Technology – Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) in Bicutan, Taguig City, engages in collaborative initiatives with both public and private institutions.  One of the AMCen’s partners is Leave a Nest Philippines.  

Leave a Nest has been involved in the country’s innovation community since 2017, by mainly serving as a tech business incubator for Philippine tech startups. With the company’s aim of “Advancing Science and Technology for Global Happiness,” this activity is a way to bridge the gap between scientists, researchers, and entrepreneurs by accelerating businesses through S&T innovations. 

The culminating activity hosted by Leave a Nest Philippines, Inc. for their counterparts from Japan who visited its partners here in the country, was held at DOST-MIRDC’s AMCen on 24 September 2022. The activity was attended by the Leave a Nest representatives from Japan and the Philippines, DOST-MIRDC personnel, and partners from the manufacturing sector. 

Advancing innovation is the shared goal of all the participants in the event.

Dr. Yevgeny Aster T. Dulla, Representative Director of Leave a Nest Philippines, Inc. indicated the need for a specific form of science communication to connect various sectors in society to solve deep issues.

Dr. Takumi Jindo, Strategic Development Division of Leave a Nest, Co., Ltd., continues in this light by discussing the company’s successes in creating collaborative and sustainable ecosystems for the purpose of solving each other’s deep societal issues. He proceeded to introduce two (2) of their startup partners in Japan who have existing technologies and collaborations in the Philippines:

Mr. Tatsuya Kanbara, Managing Department of Melody International presented the wearable fetal monitor iCTG, which was invented to provide safe and secure childbirth to mothers all over the world. The fetal monitor is a small, wireless, waterproof, and smart device which uploads data to the company’s cloud center – the world’s first digital fetal data. Collaboration with the Philippine General Hospital and St. Luke’s Medical Center is already underway.

Mr. Yasuki Kanazawa, CEO and President of Naturanix Co. Ltd., developed a technology to establish ultra-fast charging stations and electric mobility. The ultra-fast charging stations have shortened charging times from at least 30 minutes to three minutes for the e-bikes and 15 minutes for the “all GaN” e-vehicles. They are currently partnering with Cebu-based company SKYGO.

Lastly, Engr. Fred Liza, Chief of the DOST-MIRDC Materials and Process Research Division, in his presentation, assured the attendees that the DOST-MIRDC, especially the AMCen. is capacitated to support our manufacturing sector by citing existing programs and projects that contribute to telemedicine, transport, defense and security, and agro-industrial machinery. Engr. Liza also highlighted AMCen’s support to the academe and local startups, and the establishment of Metals and Engineering Innovation Centers (MEICs) in all 17 regions in the country.

All in all, much like Leave a Nest’s core mission, this culminating activity provided an avenue for DOST-MIRDC and the AMCen to nurture its existing partnerships and create new linkages among local and foreign companies to sustain, enrich, and drive the innovative culture forward and translate innovation-related initiatives to optimized socio-economic benefits.