Jelly-pop: direct ink writing for customized nutritional supplements
A revolutionary 3D printing method using direct ink writing to create personalized nutritional supplements with controlled nutrient release, enhanced by machine learning for customization.
Overview
Jelly-pop introduces an innovative approach for creating personalized nutritional supplements through a 3D printing technique known as direct ink writing (DIW). This method uniquely separates key nutrients into distinct compartments within a single tablet, allowing for controlled and timed release in the body. By leveraging automation and machine learning, this solution provides fast and customized production tailored to individual health needs, offering a significant advancement over traditional mass-produced supplements.
Technical specifications
- Direct ink writing (DIW): Utilizes this advanced 3D printing technique to create thin-walled, compartmentalized tablets.
- Nutrient compartments: Supports a minimum of 7 and up to 35 different nutritional ingredients, stored as supersaturated solutions for precise delivery.
- Machine learning integration: Facilitates real-time customization with minimal technical expertise required from users.
- Target demographics: Initially focuses on individuals aged 16 and older, with plans to expand to toddlers and teens.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, Jelly-pop is in the early stages of development. The first six months will involve material procurement, ink formulation, and 3D printing system design. The subsequent phase will integrate machine learning and automation, followed by real-world testing and validation. Active collaboration with technical experts and industry partners will be crucial for achieving regulatory compliance and ensuring the safe, scalable implementation of this promising technology.
About UC Berkeley
UC Berkeley is a comprehensive public research university of global scale, known for cross‑disciplinary inquiry and a high‑intensity research culture. Industry engages on campus through shared user facilities, project‑based collaborations, and embedded innovation spaces, with proximity to a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory enabling joint programs and access to specialized instrumentation. Its Bay Area location connects partners to deep talent pipelines and a dense startup ecosystem, enabling rapid prototyping and iteration alongside regional suppliers and investors. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, National Institutes of Health, and DARPA. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, sponsored research, material transfer agreements, and startup formation, complemented by accelerators and proof‑of‑concept resources.
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