Welcome to "necroprinting"–3D printer nozzle made from mosquito's proboscis (arstechnica.com)

Researchers at McGill University have pioneered a unique approach in necrobotics by adapting the proboscis of a female mosquito as a nozzle for a highly precise 3D printer. This innovative “necroprinting” system leverages the mosquito’s thin, robust design to achieve a steady and continuous ink flow, key for high-fidelity printing. After exploring various natural micro-dispensers including insect stingers and snake fangs, the team identified the mosquito proboscis as optimal due to its inner diameter of 20-30 microns and straight structure, suitable for alignment in the printing process. The significance of this development lies not only in the creative use of biological materials but also in its implications for precision manufacturing in the AI/ML community. The 3D necroprinter utilizes an Aerotech precision motion stage capable of 10-nanometer resolution, allowing for intricate and detailed printing that was previously unattainable. This advancement suggests a new frontier in the integration of organic components with digital fabrication technologies, potentially revolutionizing sectors where precision is critical, such as biomedical engineering and micro-manufacturing.