Call for Support for Research and Development Projects Carried Out by Regional Innovative Networks and Industrial Districts
AXIS 1 “RESEARCH, TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION”
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE
“Promote Business Investments in Research and Innovation” – ACTION 1.1.4 “Support for collaborative R&D activities for the development of new sustainable technologies, products, and services”
Regional Government Resolution No. 822 of June 23, 2020
PROJECT
“D3Vero – 3D Printing in the Artistic Glass Sector to Relaunch and Innovate”
OBJECTIVES
The D3VeRo project aimed to revitalize and strengthen the competitiveness of the glass supply chain, focusing specifically on the unique characteristics of the production processes and craftsmanship of Murano glassmakers. This sector represents one of the most significant production areas at the regional level, having contributed for centuries to enhancing the prestige of Veneto and Italy as a whole. The primary objective of the project was to introduce 3D printing into the context of artistic glass, with the intent to innovate and revitalize the entire production chain. In doing so, it sought to preserve and enhance the millenary artisanal traditions of Murano by combining them with the latest technologies, ensuring efficient and sustainable production while maintaining the distinctive charm and quality of Venetian artistic glass.
PROJECT RESULTS
The D3VeRo project embraced Smart Manufacturing through its innovative 3D printing technology to revolutionize the Artistic Glass sector. The goal was not only to stimulate creativity but also to simplify and optimize production processes without compromising the valuable artisanal skills deeply rooted in the traditional fabric of artistic glassmaking.
Experimental activities confirmed the possibility of creating high-quality products and creativity-related services thanks to new technologies, even in sectors established by centuries of experience. The project contributed to enhancing the skills of the companies involved, effectively meeting the growing demand for customization in artistic products.
But it didn’t stop there. The project opened the doors of this historic and highly specialized sector to the opportunities offered by the Industry 4.0 revolution. Mass Customization enabled large-scale production of personalized products, ensuring competitive agility and resilience to market challenges. The introduction of Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT) led to a profound transformation, making artistic glass an integral part of the modern digital era.
The results achieved had a significant impact. Companies and workshops in the artistic glass sector saw substantial improvements in production and sales processes. Creative professionals, including artists, designers, and cultural practitioners from various disciplines, found new expressive and technical possibilities. In the academic world, experimentation with advanced technologies such as additive manufacturing opened new horizons in sectors characterized by historically rich and highly artisanal products. Finally, consumers worldwide have been able to appreciate and discover a new dimension of Murano artistic glass products, thanks to a brand that successfully evolved in the contemporary context.
The total contribution granted for the operation amounted to €1,099,391.56, allocated as follows:
- Desamanera Srl: €99,879.50
- Dataveneta Computers Srl: €86,136.79
- Foscarini Spa: €46,039.14
- Barovier & Toso Vetrerie Artistiche Riunite Srl: €32,885.10
- Lavai Srl: €46,638.09
- Ca’ Foscari University of Venice: €33,492.82
- University of Verona: €9,630.98
- University of Padua: €41,930.41
- Academy of Fine Arts Foundation of Verona: €43,123.79
PROJECT DURATION (in months): 30 months
PROJECT START DATE: 09/09/2020
PROJECT END DATE: 28/02/2023
