Additive manufacturing (AM) is gradually beginning to find its way outside the sectors that have so far seen a need for unique spare parts or prostheses. We will see a plethora of 3D-printed tools and gadgets in the coming years.
The British company Hexr was founded by Jamie Cook , who in his research at Oxford University realized that there were better ways to design bicycle helmets.
After many years of development work, Hexr has now succeeded in developing a helmet that is produced uniquely for each customer with the help of 3D printers. But first the unique shape of the skull must be analyzed. Then a hood is sent home in the mailbox, and through your own app, your fragile head is scanned so that a perfect image can be sent to production in England.
The unique structure is reminiscent of a honeycomb, and should, according to Cook, ensure optimal absorption of energy. The beautiful mesh inner shell is printed in a material called Polyamide 11, which is renewable and created from castor oil. No large stocks are needed as the helmets are only produced to order.
Learn more about the process of Hexr.com and the Swedish news website 3dp.se .
PS. In my new book What Happens to the Future Now? 20 visions of Sweden after the corona Carin Ism talks about the exciting opportunities with the Solarpunk movement, and self-sufficient ecovillages that use solar energy and 3D printers to produce what you need.
