After months of fundraising, a revolutionary 3D printer is now owned by disability charity DEMAND. The technology, which can produce almost anything from a coffee cup to 3D body scans, is being put to life-changing use by designers at the local charity.
Where no solution seems to exist, DEMAND steps in to manufacture specialist equipment for adults and children with disabilities. Combining the expertise of medical professionals, designers and craftsman, the charity is able to transform lives with tailor-made equipment, built to meet specific needs. Despite no public sector funding a refurbishment service is also available, for items ranging from Kindle holders to mobility scooters.
The 3D printer itself is fascinating. A type of industrial robot, the pioneering technology builds layers of liquid plastic to form complex designs. In just 4 hours a final model can be printed.
“Embracing this new technology within the charity means that we can broaden the scope of equipment and help we give,” said DEMAND designer Adam Clow. Although 3D printing has been around for over 20 years, reduced manufacturing costs mean equipment can now be created cheaply, without the associated development costs. Essentially, “it avoids the need to subcontract the printing externally,” Clow explained.
There are currently 2 DEMAND workshops, one in Abbots Langley and the other in Holmfirth, Yorkshire. Offering infinite possibilities, the 3D printer is now set to boost the charity’s ability to improve quality of life for those with a disability.
If you’d like to know more about the kaleidoscopic scale of 3D printing, YouTube the documentary “3D Printed Guns” by Vice.
Written by Sophie Wolf.
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