With the ability to test for form, fit and function, 3D printed consumer products have become an increasingly relevant segment of additive manufacturing. Throughout the phases of functional prototyping, design, tooling and even through series part production 3D printing has opened new doors to innovation for consumer goods manufacturers.

With an ever increasing need to reduce product development time the consumer goods industry is turning to 3D printing to create prototypes and functional parts. An array of technologies and material for every step of the product development cycle allows for the designers, engineers, packaging and marketing teams to understand the product's aesthetic and functional appeal.

Advancements have already been made in industries that have integrated 3D printing into their manufacturing process such as eyewear, footwear, sportswear, stationary, bicycle and toys manufacturers.

BENEFITS OF 3D PRINTING

forward FASTER TO MARKET: Since a designer no longer has to wait to manufacture their designs they can simply test them out on a prototype and make modifications as required. This allows the designer to quickly make changes and bring the final product to market faster. Quick iterations and real time feedback ensure a speedier design cycle.

forward CUSTOMIZATION: 3D printing offers designers the freedom to create one off designs that are tailor made specifically as per the clients wants and needs. It allows them to efficiently design and create products for the unique fit, performance and aesthetics consumers demand.

forward PROTOTYPING AND PRODUCTION OF COMPLEX PATTERNS: Another advantage of 3D printing is that it allows consumer goods manufacturers to test their designs before going into mass manufacturing. Likewise complex designs too can been printed and tested.

forward INNOVATION: 3D printing allows product designers to create any form they can imagine, in real time without having to face the limitations of traditional manufacturing.