2026 / FEATURED
Nidus
The workpiece builds its own nest.
Fixtures generated from the workpiece itself.
Nidus
Automatically generates holding fixtures from the workpiece’s 3D data — a workpiece-specific nest fixture manufactured by 3D printing.
The challenge
Fixture design and fabrication is always on the critical path, in production launches and prototyping alike. Fixtures built from generic pins and blocks contact the part at points, scratching or deforming it. Machining a dedicated fixture takes weeks of design and cutting — and when the part changes, you start over.
Nidus features
Single pull direction — The 3D shape of the workpiece is unfolded along a single pull direction, removing all overhangs, so parts can be placed and picked without interference by hand or by robot.
Holds by surface — A geometrically wide contact area supports the workpiece without local pressure, preventing scratches and deformation.
Rigid or elastomeric — Rigid materials for precise positioning, elastomers for parts sensitive to scratches or clamping loads. Choose the material for the application.
Elasticity graded by a field extracted from the workpiece — Based on the distance field from the workpiece surface, Nidus generates a lattice that is soft at the contact face and load-bearing in depth — a grip optimized for each workpiece, printed in one piece.
Manufactured by 3D printing — Fully digital from design to shipment. No molds or machining required.
Features
- 3D Printed, No Tooling
- Rigid / Elastomeric Materials
- Designed by Mikawa Industry Inc.
- Made in Japan
Use
- Infeed / outfeed nests for robotic handling
- Measurement and inspection fixtures
- Holding during assembly, bonding and painting
- Transport trays and kitting for precision parts
Process
- Receive the workpiece 3D data (or capture it by reverse engineering)
- Confirm pull direction, holding requirements and material
- Nidus generation and design review
- Manufacture by 3D printing and deliver
Send us your workpiece 3D data. We’ll show you the Nidus result.
Built on the same technology:Dermis(lattice elastomer skin for robots that work with people)
Contact us
For workpieces you want to fixture, or to request a quotation, feel free to contact us.