3D Product Design
Abstract
3D casting for orthepedic casting innovation for better, more eco-friendly designs. Just about everyone can say they have had or know someone that has had broken bone, followed by a clunky cast in some fun color. These casts, although used for the last century, are due for an update. How might we optimize cast accessibility for a more inclusive population.
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I. Introduction
Context
Throughout time there has been constant development to products and technology that coincide with that of the average user. Medical casts have not had such a reputation of development, until now. Breaking a bone is bad enough, but often the worst part is wearing a smelly, heavy, gritty cast for the next 6 weeks.
This new cast portrays the future of medical technology and the shift into a new era of accessible medical care. Its innovative strife seeks to merge a sleek new design to a practical cast purpose of bone rehabilitation. Consider this practice in theory: Walking into the doctors' office after an x-ray for the quick 3D scan. Now consider you doing the scan yourself and being sent your custom cast fully automated.
Getting started
3D print material has now become eco-friendly and a healthy substitute for traditional plastic. Its biodegradable and sustainable material make it a perfect candidate for strength, weight, cost, and most of all, environmental impact.
II. Process
Focus Area
This was a through design project in which I conducted competitive research on casting materials, past development, and current trends aligning with innovative tech in the medical field.
This project was self-provoked for a hackathon event, where people can present innovative ideas, inventions, and technologies in design.
Inclusivity
With the traditional use of cast material, there are many harmful chemical-based ingredients that are in direct contact with the skin. While many people do not get a reaction, there are those who cannot use traditional casts due to allergic reactions, skin diseases, or sensitive skin.
By creating cast from sustainable materials, we not only can push for a green initiative, but also an initiative for inclusivity among a broader spectrum of patients who face reactions to certain materials.
Problem
Outdated use of casting material in comparison to modern technology in the medical field.
Solution
Create a more customizable design while still considering cost, material, strength, and the patient.
III. Role
My Role
I was the only person working on this project, so there was bit of a learning curve considering I had not much experience in the field of 3D rendering, ready prints, and 3D design. This challenge allowed me to rise to the occasion, especially since I had just shattered my thumb and hated my cast. So, I was also against the element of time… and using a computer-mouse with my left hand.
My Process
I started this project any other way I normally would. User-centered research, competitive analysis, and constant refinement of methods others had used in the past and taking those positives into my own project.
I continued to refine my 3D scanning ability and design rendering via Blender 3D. The learning curve was a lot different from other design platforms I had used in the past and required patience.
With diligence I was able to learn while I created and to my surprise, the first couple practice 3D designs were quite accurate, and I decided to move forward with my design.
I continued to print using software in Rhino 3D and Render. This process was also a learning process of correct volume, print size, supports, and girth to the material.
My Approach
The key to my success in this project was to stay confident in the process and diligent with the learning as there were many drawbacks, redo’s, Ctrl-Z, failures to researching, designing, and printing the finished product.
IV. Overview
Looking back
While working on this project in solitude I noticed positives and negatives to the overall design and research process. Overall, the process was faster, and I was able to define the speed and integration in each step. However, I sacrificed criticism and actual feedback that I would usually get while working with a team. Something I really enjoy is a team atmosphere to better refine work, designs, and strategy through valuable constructive criticism.
Takeaways
Even though this was a personal project, I was able to practice the design process and product thinking in full where I identified success metrics, conducted research, and created a design system to carry out my strategy. I learned the importance of product fit in the market where current opportunities were present using immerging technology. Searching for the business opportunity is just as necessary as the design and usability.
Many companies are currently working on more environmentally safe casts that improve in their respect between waterproof, strength, longevity, and comfort for the patient. While viewing such design models from a patient perspective, it becomes apparent that simple adjustments can be made across the industry in order to innovate comfort, impact, and use.