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#3DStartup: Think3DDD on Using AM to Make Orthotics for Animals

3D printing is increasingly finding its way into the medical field with an ever-increasing focus on orthotic and prosthetic manufacturing. This is notably because additive manufacturing allows each one to be fully adapted to the morphology of an individual patient…

THINK3DDD
3Dnatives

3D printing is increasingly finding its way into the medical field with an ever-increasing focus on orthotic and prosthetic manufacturing. This is notably because additive manufacturing allows each one to be fully adapted to the morphology of an individual patient – including our animal friends. This brings about great benefits: an immense simplification of the individual steps in the manufacturing process as well as the adaptation to individual medical needs. The Berlin-based start-up Think3DDD has also recognized these benefits and since 2018 has been involved, among other things, in the production of 3D printed orthotics for animals – sustainable, cost-effective and individualized. We sat down with Tino Jacobi, founder and CEO of Think3DDD, to talk about his connection to additive manufacturing, the 3D printing process as well as future plans with his company.

3DN: Could you introduce yourself and Think3DD?

Founder and CEO Tino Jacobi with his dog Kibo (photo credits: Think3DDD)

I have been interested in new technologies and their interdisciplinary applications for a very long time. I first came into contact with 3D printing during my A-levels with a focus on computer science and chemistry. I used it to construct several spare parts and teaching models for the Lise Meitner Secondary School. This was followed by several youth research projects.

What particularly excites me about 3D technologies is their versatility, high material selection, material-saving manufacturing, and flexible customization options. If the 3D scanning method is cleverly combined with intelligent automated software and innovative materials, then groundbreaking and unique products can be created. Because I am fascinated by the almost endless possibilities of 3D technologies, I have turned my hobby into my profession.