Episodes

  • Additive manufacturing (AM) isn't just shaping the future of medical devices, it is actively changing lives. As it opens new possibilities for patient care around the globe, innovative 3D design solutions are raising the bar for patient comfort and satisfaction.

    Today, Host Fabian Alefeld speaks with Lisa Tweardy, CEO of MIGN, a company leading the charge in innovative spinal brace technology that leverages industrial 3D printing. We have Dr. Baron Lonner, a leader in minimally invasive scoliosis surgery, Isabelle (Liz) Rauch, Orthotist for Dr. Lonner of Orthotic Consultants, and Livi Lasner, founder of Save a Spine, an organization she started to connect those who need spinal braces with the financial support to obtain them. Together they explore how additive manufacturing is revolutionizing not only healthcare but spinal health from a personal and technological perspective.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key takeaways:

    [1:48] A patient's physical and psychological comfort are essential components of spinal brace design.

    [9:36] MIGN is the first and only company to personalize orthopedic bracing at scale.

    [15:13] How additive technology allows Dr. Lonner to approach scoliosis treatment differently.

    [19:31] An end-to-end digital design workflow allows MIGN to send production requirements anywhere in the world.

    [22:12] The mission of the Save a Spine organization.

    Resource links:

    EOS

    Save a Spine

    MIGN Design

    Dr. Baron Lonner

  • The ultimate goal for additive manufacturing (AM) is for those creating, building, and designing for our future to reach for AM as another tool in their toolbox as easily as they would a traditional manufacturing method. To build this trust and knowledge of industrial 3D printing, countless hours of research are necessary.

    To learn more about the research being performed at Auburn University that is shaping the future of AM, Host Fabian Alefeld speaks with a distinguished AM figure, Nima Shamsaei. Nima is a Philpott-West Point Stevens professor at Auburn University and Director of the National Center for Additive Manufacturing Excellence (NCAME). At NCAME, Nima and his team are at the forefront of research and technology and are actively studying the fracture and fatigue behavior of AM materials. In addition, a joint project with the US government and Auburn University is supporting manufacturers to create components for NASA.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1:39] An interest in mechanical properties led Nima from automotive to pushing the AM envelope with NASA.

    [6:33] How Nima detects the fatigue behavior of additive materials.

    [9:31] Three challenges of collecting and leveraging additive material data.

    [16:19] When cost is not an issue, leveraging additive design maximizes its full potential.

    [19:48] Part classifications are based on qualification complexities and the consequence of failure.

    [23:21] A joint effort by the US government, Auburn University, and NASA support manufacturers to create parts NASA can use.

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  • It's clear that AI and additive manufacturing (AM) are a natural marriage of innovative technologies. As more companies focus on solutions that fortify the supply chain and increase the speed of engineering ingenuity, AM adoption will continue to accelerate.

    Today, host Fabian Alefeld speaks with the co-founder and CEO of 1000 Kelvin, Omar Fergani. 1000 Kelvin is a company at the forefront of the AI-driven revolution in the AM industry. Omar explains the depths of the innovation driven by 1000 Kelvin, the pivotal role that AI plays in industrial 3D printing, and how the AMAIZE co-pilot helps engineers to reduce design time and engineer onboarding.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key takeaways:

    [1:18] 1000 Kelvin’s mission and how it plans to solve additive manufacturing’s biggest challenges.

    [6:26] How implementing a materials processing discipline will move additive manufacturing to serial production.

    [10:41] 1000 Kelvin’s AMAIZE is a co-pilot engineering tool and thermal management platform.

    [12:58] On a macro level, AMAIZE helps to onboard new engineers.

    [19:45] How the co-pilot integrates into the design workflow.

    [22:09] Business use cases support the growth of AM spare parts and fortify the supply chain.

    [26:03] The limitations and advantages of AI in AM.

  • Space exploration and additive manufacturing (AM) are accelerating rapidly. SpaceX was able to reach orbital velocity with its latest starship launch, providing beautiful imagery upon its reentry. Rocket Lab had its 45th launch, with 22 additional launches planned for this year, and the first metal 3D printer installation on the International Space Station (ISS). With these accomplishments achieved, where will AM fit into our space journey's future?

    To find out, Host Fabian Alefeld ventures into the final frontier with a space roundtable with an all-star panel, featuring Paul Gradl, Principal Engineer at NASA, Myles Keefer, Manager of Additive Manufacturing at Rocket Lab, Eliana Fu, Industry Manager of Aerospace & Medical at TRUMPF, and Advenit Makaya, Advanced Manufacturing Engineer at the European Space Research and Technology Centre of the European Space Agency.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key takeaways:

    [2:28] Additive manufacturing is a critical component of space exploration.

    [5:50] Common additive manufacturing challenges in space applications.

    [10:57] Additive manufacturing adoption in Europe.

    [13:28] Challenges of materials development today, and in the future.

    [26:16] How to leverage additive manufacturing for new innovative projects.

    [40:30] Machine manufacturer pain points and challenges.

    [51:48] What is driving additive innovation in Europe?

    [1:00:17] How to inspire a new generation of manufacturing engineers.

    Resource links:

    EOS

    Rocket Lab

    TRUMPF

    SpaceX

    NASA

    European Space Agency

  • Bike enthusiasts understand the importance of quality welds, dynamic suspensions, and low-maintenance bikes. But to have a bike custom designed to their unique specifications is a dream come true. Today’s guest not only builds custom bikes he designs the parts using additive manufacturing (AM).

    Today, host Fabian Alefeld speaks with the owner and founder of 44 Bikes, Kris Henry, and EOS’ Spencer Thompson. Kris shares his passion for creating custom bikes and describes how he uses the design and supply chain aspects of AM to make handcrafted custom bikes accessible to a larger user group. Spencer offers insights into the state of AM adoption by small business owners, highlights the partnership opportunities available to manufacturers, and shares the hurdles independent builders face in the AM space.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [2:11] 44 Bikes was born of Kris’ love of bicycles and his passion for designing things.

    [8:48] The benefits of additive manufacturing in building custom bicycles.

    [20:07] 3D printing offers small shop owners and bike enthusiasts a whole new level of design.

    [26:29] Supply chain challenges and speed to market increase AM adoption in small businesses.

    [34:22] When only a few parts are needed, finding manufacturers to partner with is a big hurdle.

    [36:03] The lack of protocols or universal standards for additive manufacturing creates a huge learning curve for independent builders.

    Resource Links:

    EOS

    44 BIKES

    Spencer Thompson on LinkedIn

  • Are you curious about how the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) uses additive manufacturing (AM)? The military’s innovative approach has a 30-year roadmap, which was authored by this week’s guest.

    In this special episode, host Fabian Alefeld speaks with LJ Holmes. LJ has one of the most diverse jobs in the AM industry. He is the Executive Director of Advanced Manufacturing Research and Engineering at Harrisburg University. His rich background in AM from its historical roots in the DoD to current uses and future applications. LJ describes his AM journey from the Army Research Center to Harrisburg University, how AM has evolved within the defense sector, and some undocumented stories of early use cases and current applications within the DoD.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1:50] LJ shares his journey to AM and the integration of AM at the Army Research Center and the Department of Defense.

    [11:47] Authoring the 30-year Additive Manufacturing Roadmap was the last project LJ completed for the Army Research Center.

    [17:15] Harrisburg University of Science and Technology offers students an advanced manufacturing curriculum and STEM-focused education.

    [26:35] Additively manufactured components may or may not have been used in military vehicles as early as the 2000s.

    [29:41] Additive applications for future civilian and military use.

    [42:17] During AMUG 2024, LJ will introduce a 50-foot-tall friction stir hybrid additive machine.

    Resource Link:

    EOS

    LJ Holmes on LinkedIn

    Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

    JDAMMIT.com

    ASTROA.org — AM Forward focus

  • The expenses associated with capital investments, storing inventory, and dealing with supply chain delays pose significant challenges for companies that keep a large stock of parts. However, if these companies were able to produce the required parts whenever they are needed, without the need for maintaining costly inventories, the advantages of adopting additive manufacturing (AM) becomes evident.

    In this episode, host Fabian Alefeld speaks with Pieter Ruijssenaars, the CEO and founder of DiManEx. DiManEx is redefining the AM supply chain network for its clients. Pieter describes how AM navigates the complexities of supply chains, making them more resilient, especially in the light of current geo-political tensions, his smart concept of printing 'dumb parts', and how DiManEx builds digital inventories that lead to sustainable and cost-effective business strategies.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [3:00] Pieter’s view on how AM can help build more resilient supply chains.

    [7:29] The printing of ‘dumb parts’ that solve real problems is a smart concept.

    [12:17] How DiManEx illustrates the business case for additive within an organization.

    [22:00] DiManEx utilizes the R-ladder concept to validate the sustainability of additive manufacturing with clients.

    [32:33] The future of AM adoption from Pieter’s perspective.

  • The US has always been a hotbed of innovation. With the integration of additive manufacturing (AM), AI, and advancements in materials and manufacturing technologies, creating clean, abundant energy is within reach. This conversation highlights the role of AM in next-generation energy technology.

    Host Fabian Alefeld speaks with Dr. Alaa Elwany, science and technology policy fellow at the U.S. Department of Energy, Advanced Manufacturing Office. Alaa is a recognized expert in additive manufacturing and a key advisor in the realm of science and technology to the U.S. government. He is currently serving as a science and technology fellow at the US Department of Energy and as a professor at Texas A&M at the Department of Industrial and System Engineering. Fabian and Alaa talk about Alaa's experience within the DOE, the intersection of AM and energy, the future of smart manufacturing and digital manufacturing, and resources for business owners looking to expand their AM opportunities.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1:24] Alaa explains his role within the DOE and how he and his team are shaping the future of energy.

    [3:36] Additive manufacturing is versatile and scalable enough to be used in major clean energy projects.

    [8:18] Materials that have a high relevance to energy applications.

    [11:38] Additive’s foundational role in increasing supply chain resilience.

    [16:48] Next-gen energy technology includes additive manufacturing.

    [20:48] The future of integrating smart manufacturing and AI into additive manufacturing.

    [30:33] The vital role of government investment, regulation, and support for the future of additive and smart manufacturing.

  • The innovative and intricate world of Digital Foam is an evolution of polymer lattice structures. In the past, developing applications for polymer lattice structures, especially for performance applications, has been challenging. Challenges include aspects of design, printing, post-processing, and materials. All the value chain elements influence each other, adding more complexities.

    In this special episode, Host Fabian Alefeld speaks with four panelists from the Digital Foam Architects Network about the full process chain and the complexities and opportunities of Digital Foam. Joining the panel discussion are Pierre Gonnetan, business development manager at Arkema, Mike Schorr, general manager at DyeMansion, Nick Florek, CEO of General Lattice, and Dr. Dave Krzeminski, senior Additive Minds consultant at EOS. The goal of the Digital Foam Architects Network is to increase accessibility, scalability, and speed up development for performance-based lattice structures.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key takeaways:

    [3:08] The history of polymer lattice structures and methodologies of production with Nick Florek

    [7:54] Dave Krzeminski on overcoming the challenges of an ever-changing technology

    [15:00] Objectives and initiatives of the Digital Foam Architects Network

    [19:41] Pierre Gonnetan on the material landscape and key drivers for digital foam applications

    [31:03] Mike Schorr on the importance of post-processing aspects of Digital Foam.

    [38:41] Mike Schorr explains the complex process of creating uniformity in powdering, coloring, and smoothing polymers.

    [48:48] Nick Florek unpacks the coordination and parameters of the digital design phase.

    [56:23] Additional industrial opportunities for Digital Foam applications.

    Resource Link:

    Arkema

    EOS

    DyeMansion

    General Lattice

  • Consumer 3D printing and industrial additive manufacturing (AM) are more closely related than many in the industry realize. Supply chain considerations, material development, and the ever-growing need for a robust workforce are valid concerns for both movements.

    In this episode, Host Fabian Alefeld speaks with YouTube influencer and content creator Joel Telling, the 3D Printing Nerd. Together, they dive into the fascinating interface between consumer and industrial 3D printing. Joel transitioned from software development to becoming a leading voice in the 3D printing industry with more than 600k subscribers to his 3D Printing Nerd YouTube channel. Joel is a key voice in the industry, an additive expert himself, and a friendly face to EOS in the 3D printing industry.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key takeaways:

    [1:56] The adoption of additive manufacturing in various industries has a lot to do with public perception.

    [8:55] Joel describes the challenge of integrating additive’s industrial applications with consumer products and applications.

    [17:15] How Joel transitioned from software engineer to the AM influencer, The 3D Printing Nerd.

    [21:23] How software engineering works within the additive manufacturing framework.

    [25:15] Why understanding the industrial and consumer side of AM is beneficial for the entire industry.

    [29:53] Joel’s recommendations for consumer machines and materials for newbies wanting to experiment with 3D printing projects.

    [40:16] Joel’s advice for those interested in 3D printing, find a community of like-minded people, and meet up.

  • Picture a future where values and supply chains are robust and agile. The workforce is skilled in high-tech disciplines such as additive manufacturing (AM). And the manufacturing industry has taken back its important role, not only within the US but all around the world. This vision is currently being modeled in Vermont.

    Joining Host Fabian Alefeld is Barry Hulce, the Executive Director of Vermont’s Manufacturing Collaborative (VTMC). In this episode, Barry unpacks the complexities of modern manufacturing, dives into the challenges of workforce development, and reveals how his organization is constructing a robust manufacturing infrastructure that is set to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1:21] Industry agnostic, Barry enjoys working with systems that help people.

    [8:20] The purpose and intention of Vermont Manufacturing Collaborative.

    [12:09] How VTMC’s ecosystem will be duplicated and scaled for rural communities.

    [17:35] VTMC’s plan for increasing capacity and developing the future AM workforce.

    [23:31] How educating an AM workforce differs from conventional manufacturing technologies.

    [34:05] VTMC’s technological capabilities and the development stages of active products.

  • Imagine printing a car part for the racing industry as your first additive manufacturing (AM) project, earning a process engineer position with Honda Aerospace, and following that up by becoming the AM technology leader at Ohio State University. This is the inspiring story of today’s guest.

    Joining host Fabian Alefeld is Ben DiMarco, AM Technology Leader and Principal Engineer at Ohio State University’s Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence (CDME). In this conversation, they explore Ben’s contributions to lattice structures, process monitoring, and innovative technologies such as nLIGHT and cold metal fusion. They also touch on Ben’s role and passion for workforce development.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1:15] In 2009, Ben’s first printed AM part was a brake fluid reservoir used in the racing industry.

    [3:39] Ben describes the key characteristics of lattice structure and its impact on part performance.

    [8:18] For the past few years, Ben’s objective has been to create a semi-empirical model for lattice structures.

    [17:03] Ben’s vision for how his work will impact the AM industry.

    [22:03] An overview of nLIGHT technology and OSU’s beam shaping project.

    [32:14] Examples of current and future uses of artificial intelligence in additive manufacturing.

    [34:47] OSU’s forthcoming study includes the history and future of cold metal fusion.

    [39:21] Ben explains OSU’s CDME workforce development program.

  • It is common to hear about productivity, materials, and laser power in additive manufacturing (AM). But stories are rarely heard about the lives being changed because of this technology. Innovation in AM is not just about technology. It is about transforming lives and creating a better future for people.

    Host Fabian Alefeld speaks with Princess Moshoana, a South African woman whose life was forever changed by a violent act and then restored through the marvels of AM and Dr. Gerrie Booysen, a leading figure in AM and Director of the Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing at the Central University of Technology. Together, they share a journey of recovery and groundbreaking advancements in medical industrial 3D printing.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:


    [1:31] Princess recounts the violent crime that left her physically and emotionally unable to smile.

    [7:11] Dr. Gerrie Booysen explains the history of the Centre for Rapid Prototyping and how they began 3D-printed patient-specific implants.

    [11:06] The arduous process chain of creating, implanting, and reconstructing Princess’ jaw with an AM printed part.

    [13:37] How additive manufacturing helped Princess regain her hopes and dreams.

    [15:14] The many ways AM devices and reconstructive surgery can meet the tremendous needs of South Africans.


    Resource Link: Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing

  • The world of additive manufacturing (AM) is ever-evolving. While additive technology is a proven game changer, gaining a client's trust requires speed, agility, and simplicity, particularly in production and supply chain processes.

    Joining Host Fabian Alefeld is Derek VanDenDriessche, Vice President of Sales and Business Development at Precision ADM. Precision ADM is a contract manufacturer specializing in AM. Derek has extensive experience in building successful AM production chains. He explains Precision’s three-step process from prototype to production, the value of partnering with a contract manufacturer, and the challenges of producing parts for the medical and aerospace industries.

    All opinions expressed by podcast participant(s) are so current opinions and do not reflect the opinions of EOS GmbH or the podcast participant(s) respective companies and/or affiliates.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [3:31] Who is Precision ADM and how do they maintain supply chain agility?

    [8:36] Derek details Precision ADM’s 3-step process from prototyping to production.

    [11:29] Derek explains the similarities and challenges of handling additive production for the aerospace and medical industries.

    [13:31] What criteria demonstrate the value of partnering with a contract manufacturer versus vertically integrating additive production?

    [18:26] How is Precision ADM pushing the additive manufacturing industry forward?

  • As additive manufacturing (AM) practices and processes mature, we are reminded daily of the boundless potential and transformative power of technology, especially in the healthcare industry. However, additive manufacturing can be a confusing arena for traditional medical manufacturers to step into. Large organizations that successfully integrate additive are essential components of the technology’s wider adoption.

    Joining Host Fabian Alefeld is Mark Morrison, Senior Research Manager at Smith & Nephew. Mark has decades of experience in both additive manufacturing and material science. Their conversation explores the significance of material science in AM, Mark’s unique journey, and sheds light on Smith & Nephew’s achievements including producing hundreds of thousands of patient-specific applications. Mark highlights key applications driving AM adoption and the importance of porous structures in the medical space. They also address the patient-specific perspective, the challenges of integrating AM into big business, and how the industry is navigating the experience gap between traditional methods and modern industrial 3D printing.

    All opinions expressed by podcast participant(s) are so current opinions and do not reflect the opinions of EOS GmbH or the podcast participant(s) respective companies and/or affiliates.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1:55] Mark’s appreciation for understanding why things behave the way they do triggered his journey into material science and additive manufacturing.

    [5:03] In the medical industry, what current applications can be enhanced by additive manufacturing, and what are the patient benefits?

    [10:33] What challenges or limitations does Mark foresee for integrating additive manufacturing more broadly in the medical space?

    [15:46] What role does the FDA play in assisting organizations to qualify additively manufactured implants to make them market-ready?

    [19:31] What excites Mark when he thinks about current and future additive applications?

  • With the top five orthopedic organizations using metal and polymer additive manufacturing for production parts, the space industry using it daily for critical applications, and the automotive industry ramping up, it means this is just the beginning of a very exciting additive manufacturing (AM) journey.

    Joining Host Fabian Alefeld is Chuck Hansford, Director of Advanced Development at Tecomet. In the US, Chuck is widely known to be one of the most experienced metal additive manufacturing experts in the medical industry. He provides profound insights on where AM is currently as a technology and where it will be in the future, what makes clients adopt AM, and guidance for the next generation of AM innovators.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [:45] Chuck describes his early days of testing the boundaries of additive manufacturing in plastics, then metals.

    [5:37] Chuck explains where the medical industry stands when it comes to adopting additive manufacturing.

    [9:41] Chuck gets technical about the product development lifecycle, adoption of AM in the medical industry, and resolving trapped powder particles.

    [23:00] What are AM adoption rates and trends in the medical space?

    [28:27] Chuck’s key guidance for engineers, C-levels, and operators who may be skeptical about adopting additive manufacturing.

  • The impact of additive manufacturing (AM) is expanding within the medical industry. With customization and quick turnaround times for products essential for exceptional patient care, the vertical integration of additive and traditional manufacturing is making this requirement a reality. This paradigm can function as a role model that can be applied to other technologies and industries, further solidifying the benefits of its adoption.

    Joining Host Fabian Alefeld is restor3D's brilliant co-founder and CTO Cambre Kelly. Cambre is a key figure behind the company's impressive success and recently joined the Forbes 30 under 30 list in the manufacturing and industry sector. In addition to sharing restor3D’s unique and innovative business model, Cambre explains how restor3D views the intersection of additive manufacturing, personalized healthcare, and artificial intelligence.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1:16] Cambre describes her education, research, and career journey that led to her specializing in 3D-printed porous structures in orthopedics.

    [3:35] Cambre delved into unexplored territory researching optimized gyroid lattice structures for orthopedics.

    [6:52] Founded in 2017, restor3D has been successful in the complex task of vertically integrating additive and traditional manufacturing without outsourcing.

    [16:08] In an effort to bring more personalized solutions to the orthopedic market, restor3D recently acquired companies that will expand their reach.

    [20:33] Restor3D endeavors to be technology agnostic and utilize AI tools for design efficiencies.

  • Additive manufacturing (AM) has transformed medical devices such as hearing aids, dental procedures, and implants. There is further opportunity to expand and innovate the space, but are the regulatory bodies and insurance companies ready to adopt the technologies?

    Host Fabian Alefeld is joined by the founder and principal consultant of LG Strategies, Laura Gilmour. Laura has extensive experience in additive manufacturing and in particular in the medical market. Laura offers a comprehensive overview of the medical industry as a whole and discusses the challenges of its adoption of additive manufacturing and the current medical industry trends where additive manufacturing is making a big impact.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key takeaways:

    [:54] Laura shares her unique AM journey within the medical markets industry.

    [3:12] Laura describes the medical sectors AM is helping to revolutionize including hearing aids, hip implants, and digital dental applications for the medical implant industry.

    [11:15] When implementing AM in the medical space regulatory reviews and insurers can be the biggest hurdles.

    [16:04] The risk versus benefits requirements of the primary regulatory bodies.

    [21:21] How IQ, OQ, and PQ processes apply to the medical device industry.

    [24:41] Laura highlights trends in the medical industry with regard to the benefits of additive manufacturing innovations.

  • Additive manufacturing (AM) has forged a foothold in countless manufacturing applications due to its versatility and design freedom, but it is not always the all-in, right fit, right now for some industries. One example being manufacturing millions of end-use products for the consumer goods industry. Still, AM’s digital supply chain advantages have secured its place in the consumer goods value chain.

    Today, joining Host Fabian Alefeld is Ronen Hadar, the Senior Director of Additive Design and Manufacturing at The LEGO Group. Ronen has a unique perspective on the advantages and challenges of working with AM in the consumer goods industry. He shares the long history of AM within the LEGO Group, how the famous ‘duck’ project came about, and how a limited talent pool may affect new digital technologies.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [:46] In 2010, Ronen began exploring how AM could alleviate supply chain challenges at the LEGO Group.

    [3:29] From prototyping to on-demand final designs, Ronen explains how the LEGO Group was one of the initial companies to adopt 3D printing for multiple applications.

    [10:59] Ronen explains why he asserts that AM is not a replacement for injection molding.

    [12:52] While scouting new technologies, the LEGO Group’s now famous duck was an application to highlight the advantages of AM.

    [21:05] For the consumer goods industry, Ronen shares what he sees as the biggest challenges for the adoption of AM as an end-user technology.

    [28:25] How does the LEGO Group handle the small talent pool available to work in AM applications?

  • Additive manufacturing (AM) has the potential to reshape industries and enhance lives – complete from head to toe. Podiatry is an area where inspiration and innovation help customize an end-user product by blending AI, a platform-based business model, and additive manufacturing technology to create a medical application that enhances people’s lives.

    Today, Host Fabian Alefeld is joined by Travis and Nathan Eadie who called in from the Australian Podiatry Conference. Travis and Nathan are an innovative brother duo behind the company Doc Sols, a revolutionary company making strides in podiatry with their additively manufactured orthopedic insoles. This episode promises a riveting discussion about their journey, their challenges and triumphs, and their vision for the future of AM in healthcare.

    Comments about the show or wish to share your AM journey? Contact us at [email protected]. The Additive Snack Podcast is brought to you by EOS.

    Key Takeaways:

    [1:09] How Nathan, a sports podiatrist, and his brother Travis, a tradesman began creating custom insoles 25 years ago.

    [6:51] Nathan and Travis describe the full-process chain, from the app to the 3-D printed end product.

    [10:36] How does additive manufacturing mixed with AI benefit customers of insoles who have different orthopedic needs?

    [18:06] What major challenges have Nathan and Travis experienced that stifled their progress of using AI with additive manufacturing?

    [24:42] What does the Doc Sols platform-based business model look like five years out?