3D printing and FIM technology help move Spraino’s product development forward
A new introduction to beneficial technology
Through the AM Hybrid project at Dansk AM Hub, Spraino has been introduced to new technology that has created positive effects for the company and brought joy to sports halls across Denmark.
Spraino’s product improves shoes, enabling athletes to perform at a higher level in indoor sports and avoid injuries. A product that speaks to athletes’ hearts and includes the mounting and overmoulding of friction-free elements for indoor shoes. After venturing into relatively unfamiliar technological waters, Spraino has moved one step closer to an even better product.
Neither thermoforming nor injection moulding tools have been sufficient or delivered satisfactory results for Spraino, which has previously experimented with various options to create an even better product. 3D printing and Freeform Injection Molding (FIM) proved to be the technologies that could move Spraino’s product development forward.
Measurable results
How much Spraino has saved
%
finances
%
time
FIM technology and 3D-printed reusable moulds have been the way forward for Spraino, enabling easier and faster has been able to production of functional prototypes and creation of new designs every week. The company has also been able to reap financial benefits from using the technologies, which is particularly welcome in a start-up such as Spraino.
The company aims to be able to print and mould soles in its low-friction materials easily, quickly, and locally, which can provide even better opportunities for product development and small-scale production. By printing in low-friction materials, Spraino can carry out accurate tests with realistic loads and speeds, thereby achieving more precise results and knowledge about the low-friction material.
At present, it is not possible for Spraino to use FIM technology for final production, meaning it is primarily reserved for product development. However, Spraino will continue to develop the technology and has several ideas for how production can be carried out via 3D printing in low-friction materials.
Results from programmes with Dansk AM Hub
- Cost reduction for moulds. From DKK 25,000–40,000 to DKK 5,000, approximately 80% cost savings
- Significant time savings. From 4 weeks to 2 weeks, i.e., a 50% reduction in time.
- Easier and faster to develop designs.
- Opportunity to use more sustainable material.
Value and impact for the company
Spraino says:
- Product: FIM technology and 3D printing have created positive effects for Spraino’s product development and thus also for the final product. It has become both easier and faster for Spraino to develop designs and test the market.
- Time: Spraino has experienced significant time savings by using the new technology, and it now takes two weeks to prototype a new design, whereas it previously took fouHybr weeks. The company has been able to adjust multiple parameters continuously and has had faster, iterative cycles in production. The halved process time has therefore also created positive effects for Spraino’s time-to-market.
- Economy: For the start-up, which has limited resources, further development is a crucial area, and here it has been financially advantageous for Spraino to use the technologies. Both the prototypes, the soles and the moulds are expensive, and a classic mould costs approximately DKK 25.000–40,000 and must be adjusted continuously. With the new technology, this can be done far more cheaply, as moulds for prototypes can now be produced for around DKK 5,000 per. unitme, meaning the method holds great potential for the company
- Sustainability: By using FIM and 3D printing, Spraino can be more sustainable. This is because the company has succeeded in replacing its material, which contained fluoroplastic with a material that is less energy-intensive to produce, can be recycled, and is not suspected of toxicity.
About the company
Spraino
Location
Ole Maaløes Vej 3, 2200 Copenhagen
Number of employees
2
Info
Spraino is designed to help prevent ankle injuries without compromising comfort or mobility. Spraino can be used by athletes at all levels.
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