| Authors | Benjamin L. Savonen Tobias J. Mahan Maxwell W. Curtis Jared W. Schreier John K. Gershenson Joshua M. Pearce |
|---|---|
| Location | Michigan, USA |
| Status | Designed Prototyped Verified |
| Verified by | MOST PSU |
| Links | https://www.academia.edu/36117636/Development_of_a_Resilient_3_D_Printer_for_Humanitarian_Crisis_Response%7C https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7080/6/1/30%7C |
| Design files | https://osf.io/pzxea/ OSF.io |
|---|---|
| Hardware license | CERN-OHL-S |
| Certifications | Start OSHWA certification |
Rapid manufacturing using 3-D printing is a potential solution to some of the most pressing issues for humanitarian logistics. In this paper, findings are reported from a study that involved development of a new type of 3-D printer. In particular, a novel 3-D printer that is designed specifically for reliable rapid manufacturing at the sites of humanitarian crises. First, required capabilities are developed with design elements of a humanitarian 3-D printer, which include, (1) fused filament fabrication, (2) open source self-replicating rapid prototyper design, (3) modular, (4) separate frame, (5) protected electronics, (6) on-board computing, (7) flexible power supply, and (8) climate control mechanisms. The technology is then disclosed with an open source license for the Kijenzi 3-D Printer. A swarm of five Kijenzi 3-D printers are evaluated for rapid part manufacturing for two months at health facilities and other community locations in both rural and urban areas throughout Kisumu County, Kenya. They were successful for their ability to function independently of infrastructure, transportability, ease of use, ability to withstand harsh environments and costs. The results are presented and conclusions are drawn about future work necessary for the Kijenzi 3-D Printer to meet the needs of rapid manufacturing in a humanitarian context.
What could you print with it?
- This printer was primarily tested on 3D printed medical equipment, however there are many applications including:
- The full source for the 3-D Printer is here including BOM, operations manual, software and 3D design files/stls: https://osf.io/pzxea/
- To build: First follow the basic instructions in the manuscript. This design is adapted from basic MOST Delta 3-D printer build that may help with details.
