UC Berkeley Launches OpenCAL Volumetric 3D Printer
The new open-source system uses a consumer projector and Raspberry Pi to make volumetric printing accessible.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Robotics
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UC Berkeley has unveiled the OpenCAL volumetric 3D printer, a project designed to democratize advanced manufacturing for home users and universities. Collaborating with Prusa Research and Formlabs, the team released the hardware under an open license to foster community development.
Why it matters
The project aims to significantly lower the barrier to entry for volumetric manufacturing, which previously required expensive proprietary equipment. By using accessible components, researchers and hobbyists can now build their own systems for rapid object creation.
The printer operates by rotating a resin vial illuminated by a consumer projector, powered by a Raspberry Pi 5. Users assemble the unit in roughly six hours using parts that cost approximately $1,600 total.
The players
UC Berkeley
This public research university in California is the lead developer of the OpenCAL printer project.
Prusa Research
The company is a major manufacturer of 3D printers and is collaborating on the OpenCAL license and resin supply.
MIT
This private research university in Cambridge is one of the sites where an OpenCAL unit is currently installed.
National Institute of Standards and Technology
This federal agency is a laboratory that has integrated an OpenCAL printer into its research facilities.
Purdue University
This public research university in Indiana is among the institutions hosting an active OpenCAL installation.
The details
The system utilizes the Tomo software tool to convert standard STL files into the volumetric data required for printing. Once assembled, the unit uses specialized resin sold through Prusa Research, which is also a key collaborator on the project.
Timeline
February 2027: The team will host a workshop at the volumetric manufacturing symposium.
The Tech Race
This project accelerates the move toward decentralized, open-source hardware that mirrors the earlier disruption seen in the consumer FDM printer market. By leveraging common components like the Raspberry Pi, it challenges the traditional reliance on expensive, proprietary industrial systems.
Users can now build an advanced 3D printer for approximately $1,600, provided they assemble the components over the required six-hour period. While the upfront hardware cost is lower, operators must factor in the ongoing $119.99 cost per liter for specialized resin.
The takeaway
The OpenCAL project proves that high-end manufacturing capabilities are no longer limited to industrial budgets. Individuals and academic labs should explore these open-source designs if they seek to prototype complex geometries without the typical price tag of commercial volumetric hardware.
What happens next
The development team is scheduled to host a workshop in February 2027 as part of the upcoming volumetric manufacturing symposium.
Further reading
For more on the latest developments in automated manufacturing, visit Robotics.
More information
Access the required CAD files for OpenCAL parts to begin your build.
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