Revolutionary growth: 3D printing patents are on the rise

The European Patent Office (EPO) has unveiled a report exposing the exponential increase in 3D printing innovations. Between 2013 and 2020, patents in the 3D printing sector grew dramatically at an average annual rate of 26.3%. This rate is nearly eight times the growth rate of all technology fields combined over the same period. This summary offers a preview of the findings of the EPO study, providing critical insight into the global 3D printing revolution.

The EPO report, Innovation Trends in Additive Manufacturing (AM), reveals that more than 50,000 international patent families (IPFs) related to 3D printing technologies have been filed worldwide since 2001. This increase is changing the industry, with startups and specialized AM companies alongside established giants. Remarkably, about 12% of these applications come from universities and public research organizations, almost double their typical share for other technologies.

The United States leads the 3D printing race with 40% of international patent families between 2001 and 2020, closely followed by Europe with 33%. Key players in this field include General Electric, Raytheon Technologies, HP and Siemens. It is underlined in this report that the central role of universities and research organizations in 3D printing innovation, especially in areas such as biomaterials and medical applications has increased significantly. The transformative power of AM extends far beyond its origins and affects diverse industries such as health, transportation, tools, energy, fashion, electronics, construction and even food production.

3D printing market revenue has tripled from $6 billion in 2016 to $18 billion in 2022, and projections suggest it could exceed $50 billion by 2028. Find out how this seismic shift could affect your business or interests within AM in the full article.

Discover the full story in the EPO report to get a comprehensive understanding of these transformative trends.