The Top 3D Printing Applications in Sports

3D technologies are ever increasingly being used in the consumer goods sector. In particular, we have seen a growing role for additive manufacturing in the sports industry over recent years. Not only that but 3D printing in sports is not limited to only a few, isolated sports. On the contrary, ranging from running shoes to ski boots, helmets to sports cars, there is something for almost every fan as well as professionals seeking more customizable gear. Read on to discover what innovations have already been realized thanks to 3D printing in the sports sector.

The Zero2-R Matrix ID Trench Helmet from Vicis

Many helmets do not offer the necessary protection in the event of an impact. This is o@mes the case due to the foam used. The Zero2-R Matrix ID Trench helmet from equipment manufacturer Vicis offers significantly greater protection against injuries thanks to its special padding on the inside. The padding is individually adapted to the shape of the individual player’s head using a 3D scan of the contours of the head and 3D printed. The padding consists of complex GiRer structures that are very light but absorb impacts better than conventional materials. The 3D printing therefore enables a better fit and a lower weight of the helmet. The NFL’s own test laboratory even rates the padding integrated into the helmet as the best head protection for players this year. A number of NFL players are now equipped with such a helmet from Vicis. These include quarterback Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, Tua Tagovailoa of the Miami Dolphins and Derek Carr of the New Orleans Saints. The company’s aim is to make the product more affordable so that it can also be offered to college and high school athletes.

Credits: Forbes/Vicis

FotoDent® 405 nm Splint from DREVE

Since 3D printing arrived in the dental sector, a lot of innovations and new possibilities have appeared. DREVE is a company established in this sector, which has more than 80 patents. It has a wide range of products from solutions to materials but in this case, we will focus on the FotoDent® 405 nm splint. For its manufacture, a high-quality light-curing material FotoDent® 405 nm is used which offers a very resistant final product with a good surface finish. In addition, it is a biocompatible dental splint that is very easy to clean which makes it perfect for all types of athletes.