Table of Contents
4D Printing Market Overview
4D printing companies provide an advanced form of 3D printing that allows objects to change shape or properties over time in response to external conditions like heat, light, or moisture.
It uses intelligent materials, such as shape-memory polymers, which return to their original form when triggered.
While the process is similar to 3D printing, 4D printing adds the ability for objects to evolve or self-assemble after being printed. This technology has promising applications in fields such as healthcare, robotics, and construction.
Market Drivers
The global 4D printing market is growing due to advances in 3D printing and material science, making it more affordable and practical.
Its ability to create adaptable, customizable products is driving adoption in sectors like healthcare, automotive, and electronics.
In healthcare, 4D printing enables self-adjusting devices and implants, while in robotics, it supports adaptive robots with real-time shape-changing capabilities. Additionally, the technology promotes sustainability by reducing waste and enhancing production efficiency.
Market Size
The global 4D printing market is projected to reach USD 13.95 billion by 2033, up from USD 472 million in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 40.3% from 2024 to 2033.
List of Major Companies
These are the top 10 companies operating in the 4D Printing Market:
- Autodesk
- Stratasys
- Materialise
- Dassault
- Organovo
- Northrop-Grumman
- EnvisionTEC
- CT-Core
- Hewlett-Packard
- Heineken
Autodesk
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1982 |
| Headquarter | San Francisco, California, U.S. |
| Key Management | Andrew Anagnost (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 5.5 Billion (2024) |
| Headcount | ~ 14,100 (2024) |
| Website | https://www.autodesk.com/ |
About Autodesk
Autodesk, Inc. has made significant strides in the 4D printing companies/sector, collaborating with MIT’s Self-Assembly Lab and Stratasys to develop materials that react to environmental changes, enabling adaptable structures for various industries.
In May 2024, Autodesk acquired Wonder Dynamics, enhancing its AI-powered 3D animation capabilities. Later, in August 2024, it acquired key intellectual property from Golaem, a leader in crowd simulation software, further strengthening its advanced design and simulation technologies.
These acquisitions demonstrate Autodesk’s commitment to advancing design and manufacturing, including its role in 4D printing.
Geographical Presence
Autodesk, Inc., headquartered in San Francisco, California, has a strong global presence with regional offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa (EMEA), and Asia Pacific (APAC).
Key locations include offices in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, Germany, China, Japan, India, France, Mexico, the UK, and several other countries.
This extensive network supports Autodesk’s diverse clientele in industries such as architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, media, and entertainment. For more information, visit Autodesk’s official website.
Recent Developments
- In October 2024, Autodesk announced AI-powered automation for Autodesk Fusion and a new automotive exterior design tool, Form Explorer, for Autodesk Alias.
- In November 2024, Autodesk’s Government portfolio received FedRAMP® Moderate Authorization, ensuring robust security for U.S. Federal and public sector entities.
Stratasys
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1989 |
| Headquarter | Rehovot, Israel and Eden Prairie, Minnesota, the U.S. |
| Key Management | Yoav Zeif (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 628 M (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 1,980 (2023) |
| Website | http://www.stratasys.com/ |
About Stratasys
Stratasys Ltd. has been a leader in 4D printing companies, collaborating with MIT’s Self-Assembly Lab and Autodesk to develop materials that change shape in response to environmental factors, enabling adaptable structures for various industries.
In May 2023, Stratasys announced a $1.8 billion merger with Desktop Metal but canceled the deal in September after shareholders rejected it.
In August 2024, the company filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Bambu Lab, highlighting its commitment to protecting intellectual property and advancing its position in the additive manufacturing market.
Geographical Presence
Stratasys Ltd. operates globally and has a strong presence in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America.
Its headquarters are in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and it has manufacturing facilities in Rehovot, Israel. The company maintains offices in key regions, including the United States, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, China, India, and Australia.
This extensive network enables Stratasys to serve industries such as aerospace, automotive, consumer products, and healthcare.
Recent Developments
- In December 2024, 3E EOS expanded its additive manufacturing capabilities by investing in Stratasys, adding multiple FDM 3D printers to its fleet, now totaling 15 large-scale systems.
- In December 2024, Stratasys strengthened its partnership with NASCAR, becoming the exclusive 3D printing partner for part and tool design.
Materialise
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1990 |
| Headquarter | Leuven, Belgium |
| Key Management | Brigitte de Vet-Veithen (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 242.9 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 2,332 (2022) |
| Website | http://www.materialise.com/ |
About Materialise
Materialise NV has been exploring 4D printing companies, which involve creating 3D-printed objects that can change shape over time in response to environmental factors.
This technology has potential applications in various fields, including medical devices that adapt to the human body. In recent developments, Materialise has made strategic moves to enhance its capabilities.
In July 2024, the company acquired FEops nv, aiming to expand its cardiovascular solutions with predictive simulation capabilities, advancing personalized treatment for heart disease patients.
Additionally, in October 2024, Materialise reported a 14.2% increase in total revenue for the third quarter, reaching €68.7 million, indicating strong operational performance.
These initiatives reflect Materialise’s commitment to advancing 4D printing technologies and strengthening its position in the additive manufacturing industry.
Geographical Presence
Materialise NV, headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, is a leader in 3D printing services and software solutions.
The company operates globally, with a strong presence in Europe, including countries like Germany, France, the UK, and Italy; in the Americas, particularly the U.S., Colombia, and Brazil; and in the Asia-Pacific region, including China, Japan, Australia, and India.
Materialise serves a wide range of industries, such as healthcare, automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods. In 2023, the company reported revenues of €211.9 million, reflecting its global market position.
Recent Development
- In November 2024, Materialise announced software updates to Magics, enabling users to customize 3D printing workflows, protect intellectual property, and print high-performance geometries.
- In July 2024, Materialise acquired FEops to enhance its cardiovascular solutions with predictive simulation, advancing personalized treatment for heart disease patients.
Dassault
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1981 |
| Headquarter | Vélizy-Villacoublay, France |
| Key Management | Pascal Daloz (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 5.7 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 23,811 (2023) |
| Website | http://www.3ds.com/ |
About Dassault Systèmes
Dassault Systèmes SE is exploring 4D printing companies, which enable 3D-printed objects to change shape based on environmental factors, with potential applications in medical devices.
In September 2024, the company acquired Diota to enhance its 3DEXPERIENCE platform with augmented reality and virtual twin technology for manufacturing.
In October 2024, Dassault launched SOLIDWORKS 2025, improving collaboration, data management, and user experience in 3D design.
These moves highlight the company’s focus on advancing 4D printing and strengthening its role in additive manufacturing.
Geographical Presence
Dassault Systèmes SE, headquartered in Vélizy-Villacoublay, France, has a strong global presence across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.
It operates in key markets, including Germany, the UK, the U.S., Japan, China, India, Brazil, and the UAE, serving industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods.
The company supports local sectors with offices in multiple regions, driving digital transformation in product design, manufacturing, and innovation.
Recent Development
- In October 2024, Dassault Systèmes launched SOLIDWORKS 2025, featuring hundreds of user-requested enhancements and new functionalities to help millions of innovators accelerate product development and enhance user experience.
- In September 2024, Dassault Systèmes acquired Diota, a developer of assembly and quality control software, to enhance its 3DEXPERIENCE platform with virtual twin experiences. This acquisition will help optimize industrial processes and improve efficiency in industries like aerospace, defense, and transportation.
Organovo
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 2007 |
| Headquarter | San Diego, California, U.S. |
| Key Management | Taylor J. Crouch (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 20.1 M (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 50 (2023) |
| Website | http://organovo.com/ |
About Organovo
Organovo Holdings, Inc. is a biotechnology company specializing in 3D bioprinting technology to create functional human tissues for medical research and therapeutic applications.
While the company has not publicly announced specific initiatives in the 4D printing companies/sector, its advancements in 3D bioprinting lay the groundwork for future developments in this area.
In recent developments, Organovo has focused on its lead molecule, FXR314, which is undergoing Phase 2 investigation for inflammatory bowel disease, with potential applications in metabolic liver disease and oncology.
Additionally, in May 2024, Organovo announced a $5.25 million public offering to support its ongoing research and development efforts.
These strategic initiatives underscore Organovo’s commitment to advancing bioprinting technologies and developing innovative therapeutic solutions.
Geographical Presence
Organovo Holdings Inc., headquartered in San Diego, California, specializes in 3D bioprinting technology to develop functional human tissues for medical research.
The company operates globally, with its innovative tissues used by biopharmaceutical firms and academic institutions worldwide.
Organovo has established research collaborations with renowned institutions such as Yale School of Medicine and the University of Virginia, enhancing its international presence in the biotechnology sector.
Recent Developments
- In November 2024, Organovo announced that its lead drug, FXR314, would be presented orally at The Liver Meeting hosted by the AASLD.
- In April 2024, Organovo’s 16-week Phase 2 study of FXR314 showed a significant reduction in liver fat content in MASH patients compared to placebo.
Northrop-Grumman
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1994 |
| Headquarter | West Falls Church, Virginia, United States |
| Key Management | Kathy J. Warden (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 39.3 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 101,000 (2023) |
| Website | https://www.northropgrumman.com/ |
About Northrop Grumman
Northrop Grumman is exploring 4D printing technology, which enables 3D-printed objects to change shape in response to environmental factors, potentially advancing smart cities and manufacturing.
In September 2024, the company announced a partnership with Lithuania to develop an ammunition plant to enhance regional security.
Additionally, Northrop Grumman placed an $83 million order with Chemring Group in June 2024 for explosives, strengthening its defense industry ties.
Financially, the company raised its 2024 profit forecast, benefiting from increased global defense spending amid geopolitical tensions.
Geographical Presence
Northrop Grumman Corporation has a significant global presence, with operations across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. Its U.S. operations are centered in Virginia, with notable engagements in the UK, Lithuania, and Australia.
The company collaborates with Japan, South Korea, and several Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, on defense projects.
Northrop Grumman also supports defense initiatives in South Africa and Canada, ensuring its leadership in aerospace and defense technology worldwide.
Recent Developments
- In December 2024, Northrop Grumman secured a Phase 2 contract extension for the NGP program from the U.S. Space Force, supporting the manufacturing, testing, and launch of two satellites.
- In December 2024, Northrop Grumman boosted its investment in Australian weapons manufacturing by awarding a contract to A.W. Bell, enhancing titanium casting.
EnvisionTEC
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 2002 |
| Headquarter | Dearborn, Michigan, U.S. |
| Key Management | Al Siblani (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 246 Million (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 200 (2023) |
| Website | http://envisiontec.com/ |
About EnvisionTEC
EnvisionTEC Inc., a leading provider of professional-grade 3D printing solutions, is about to announce specific efforts in the 4D printing companies/sector.
However, the company has made notable progress in 3D printing technologies, especially in Digital Light Processing (DLP) and bioprinting.
In February 2021, EnvisionTEC was acquired by Desktop Metal, Inc. for around $300 million, which strengthened its capacity for high-volume production of photopolymer 3D printing solutions.
Following the acquisition, the company rebranded as ETEC to better align with its industrial customer base. These strategic moves highlight EnvisionTEC’s focus on advancing additive manufacturing and broadening its market reach.
Geographical Presence
EnvisionTEC, Inc. is a global leader in 3D printing technology, with a significant presence across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, USA, the company operates in key markets such as Germany, the UK, China, Japan, India, and Brazil, offering 3D printing solutions for industries like healthcare, dental, and manufacturing.
EnvisionTEC supports its international reach through a network of local offices, distributors, and partners, ensuring tailored solutions and localized support for diverse applications worldwide.
Recent Developments
- In February 2022, Desktop Metal rebranded EnvisionTEC as ETEC to enhance its connection with industrial customers. This new 3D printing brand reflects EnvisionTEC’s role as the inventor of digital light processing (DLP) technology.
- In February 2021, Desktop Metal acquired EnvisionTEC, a leader in photopolymer 3D printing and digital bio-fabrication for medical applications like bone regeneration, cartilage repair, and organ printing.
CT-Core
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1999 |
| Headquarter | Mömbris, Germany |
| Key Management | Arnault Dominique (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 13.4 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 88 (2023) |
| Website | https://coretechnologie.com/ |
About CT Core
CT Core Technologie Group has made significant advancements in additive manufacturing through its 4D_Additive software suite.
Moreover, this innovative tool enables the preparation of 3D models from various CAD formats for additive manufacturing processes, offering features such as quality checks, healing functions, and intelligent nesting capabilities.
In recent developments, CT Core Technologie has joined the 3MF industry consortium and optimized its 4D_Additive software for the 3D Manufacturing Format (3MF), strengthening this industry standard for additive manufacturing.
These advancements underscore the company’s commitment to enhancing interoperability and efficiency in the additive manufacturing landscape.
Geographical Presence
CT Core Technologie Group, founded in 1999, is a global leader in 3D CAD interoperability solutions, specializing in tools for data conversion, visualization, and additive manufacturing.
The company has a strong international presence, with offices in Germany (headquarters), the U.S., France, Japan, India, Italy, Ireland, and the UK.
This global network allows CT CoreTechnologie to offer tailored solutions and localized support to clients across diverse regions, enhancing collaboration across industries.
Recent Development
- In March 2024, CoreTechnologie joined the 3MF Industry Consortium and optimized its 4D_Additive software for the 3D Manufacturing Format (3MF). This integration strengthens the industry’s growing standard for additive manufacturing.
Hewlett-Packard
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1939 |
| Headquarter | Spring, Houston, Texas, U.S. |
| Key Management | Antonio Neri (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 29.1 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 62,000 (2023) |
| Website | https://hpe.com/ |
About Hewlett Packard
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is recognized as a key player in the 4D Printing companies/market. Recently, HPE has concentrated on enhancing its hybrid cloud management and AI-driven networking capabilities.
In August 2024, the company acquired Morpheus Data, a leader in hybrid cloud management software, to improve its HPE GreenLake platform.
Furthermore, in January 2024, HPE announced plans to acquire Juniper Networks, a pioneer in AI-native networks, for around $14 billion, to advance AI innovation and bolster its networking business.
These strategic acquisitions highlight HPE’s focus on expanding its technological capabilities and market position in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.
Geographical Presence
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is a global IT solutions provider with a strong presence across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America.
Headquartered in San Jose, California, HPE operates in key markets such as the U.S., Canada, the UK, Germany, China, India, Japan, and Brazil.
The company offers cloud services, storage solutions, networking infrastructure, and more, with manufacturing facilities, R&D centers, and regional offices worldwide.
Its global reach allows HPE to deliver tailored IT solutions and support to businesses across various industries.
Recent Developments
- In August 2024, HPE acquired Morpheus Data, a leader in hybrid cloud management software. To enhance HPE GreenLake’s hybrid operations capabilities and simplify IT complexity.
- In January 2024, HPE acquired Juniper to boost its portfolio, strengthen networking, and accelerate sustainable growth.
Heineken
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1864 |
| Headquarter | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Key Management | Dolf van den Brink (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 25.9 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 85,000 (2022) |
| Website | http://www.theheinekencompany.com/ |
About Heineken
Heineken N.V. is exploring 4D printing companies. The company has used 3D printing at its Seville brewery to produce custom tools, reducing costs by 70-90% and improving production efficiency.
In April 2023, Heineken acquired Distell Group Holdings and Namibia Breweries. Creating HEINEKEN Beverages to enhance its presence in Southern Africa.
Additionally, Heineken plans to build its first brewery in Dubai by November 2024 to meet growing regional demand. These moves highlight Heineken’s focus on advanced manufacturing and global expansion.
Geographical Presence
Heineken N.V. is a global brewer with a strong geographical presence across multiple regions. Its headquarters are in Amsterdam, and it operates extensively in Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Oceania.
Key markets include the U.S., Mexico, Brazil, China, and South Africa. The company has strategically expanded through acquisitions, such as its purchase of Asia Pacific Breweries, and operates breweries and distribution centers worldwide.
Heineken’s diverse portfolio caters to local preferences, ensuring its competitive edge in the global beer industry.
Recent Developments
- In April 2023, HEINEKEN acquired Distell and Namibia Breweries, merging them with HEINEKEN South Africa to create HEINEKEN Beverages, reflecting its expanded portfolio and focus on high-quality beverages in Southern Africa.
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