Create it REAL announced an interesting arrangement for a new kind of 3D print application: wheelchair seating.
The Danish company has been developing highly advanced and customizable 3D print slicing solutions for quite some time. Recently we saw one of their applications, a method for producing footwear midsoles continuously on standard 3D printer. It was a very intriguing example of how they can wield their powerful software to solve a problem.
Now they’ve made another step with a deal with Ireland-based LCS, a manufacturer of custom wheelchair seating solutions. Wheelchair seating is actually quite important because users remain in the seats for very long periods of time. The optimal approach is to produce customized solutions that match the sitter.
LCS has been producing these custom seats using conventional manufacturing techniques, but now seems to be switching to additive manufacturing.
The seats are made using a complex generated lattice structure, which is produced using Create it REAL’s software. Their “Programmable Foam” is at the heart of this venture, as it can produce customized lattice structures.
The idea is to design a seat that channels both heat and moisture away from the surface, something quite important for day-long wheelchair users.
These complex channels are generated by Programmable Foam, and presumably can be customized for specific users.
Create it REAL explains:
“With the partnership, LCS will purchase the Embrace Seat maker to produce 3D-printed seating. Not only will LCS be able to produce complete 3D printed seating systems but will also be able to incorporate 3D printed pressure relieving areas into carved foam systems. This hybrid system will enable active airflow in carved foam seats and back. Comfort for the users is one of the main drivers for introducing Programmable FoamR into their product portfolio.”
LCS is building a 3D printing hub in Ireland to provide this service for the UK and Ireland. Perhaps in the future they will expand their operations to other regions.
The interesting aspect of this announcement is that it defines yet another application area for 3D printing, enabled by the ability to create custom lattices. There are many foam-like products, all of which might be considered as future applications for advanced 3D modeling and printing technologies.
I’m pretty sure that Create it REAL is investigating many such opportunities right now.
Via Create it REAL and LCS
