For the skeptics out there who might raise an eyebrow or wave off 3D printing dismissively as if they have just heard enough about it already, it might be suggested that they talk to an individual who has had their life changed with the inclusion of a 3D printed prosthetic into their life. That’s not a whimsical idea — and neither is enlisting in the military and being shipped out during wartime, which afterward is sometimes responsible for leaving our heroic veterans in need of replacement limbs and help in overcoming the challenges of losing a body part on the battlefield.
California’s 3D Accuracy has come up with an inspiring program to give back for the holidays. They are donating a 3D printed prosthetic to the lucky winner of their holiday drawing, which will be based on 300 names nominated by individuals or businesses, and they enlist everyone possible to send names of US veterans they know of who would benefit from a 3D printed prosthetic device constructed from ABS thermoplastic.
We have written a number of articles regarding the improved quality of life 3D printed prosthetics have offered to so many people around the world, from lower limb prosthetics being designed for use in developing countries in a start-to-finish sustainable process, to print-offs and breaking records with 3D printing of prosthetic hands, to multiple articles about e-NABLE’s enormous group of volunteers who have been 3D printing prosthetic hands and arms for children and adults in need all over the world. The stories are inspiring because with the technology of 3D printing, individuals are receiving affordable prosthetics that can be easily customized and often offer innovative new ideas for movement and functionality.
Robert Schaefer, owner of 3D Accuracy, displaying a recent 3D printed prototype.
3D Accuracy realizes the construction of this 3D printed prosthetic will require a team effort, and they will have a plan in place to work with the veteran’s doctor in using the 3D CAD or .stl files files for the required prosthetic. They will also work with the veteran’s doctor overall in making sure the prosthetic is made to fit. Shipping will be free, but may be in more than one shipment ‘depending on complexity and number of parts.’
Based in Laguna Hills, California, 3D Accuracy specializes in providing 3D printed services, but they are also a producer of injection, die-cast, and blow molds. They supply products for the following industries:
- Automotive
- Electronic devices
- Medical devices
- Computer hardware
- Telecommunications
- Sports equipment
- Consumer products
- Kitchen and bath
- Pool and pond equipment
- Cleaning products
- Dishware
- Food storage
- Furniture
- Storage devices
- Metal stamping and enclosures
All names must be received by 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time on Christmas, December 25th, 2014, with the veteran chosen to receive the 3D printed prosthetic being notified by December 31st. If you are nominating a veteran, please be sure to include all their contact information and submit their name to 3D Accuracy at sales@3d-accuracy.com or you may fill out their website form. 3D Accuracy will also announce the name of the US Veteran selected in the drawing on their blog. Please note that only one name submission per US Veteran is allowed.
Do you know of a US veteran who might benefit from a 3D printed prosthetic? Tell us about it in the 3D Accuracy 3D Printed Prosthetic Drawing forum over at 3DPB.com.
