Jan.14, 2013
The U.S. Army's Rapid Equipping Force (REF) deployed the second mobile laboratory to the war zone in Afghanistan on January 7, 2013.
Working with Applied Minds, Inc. and Exponent, REF is able to set up mobile labs at remote operating bases equipped with 3D printers, CNC mills, laser cutters and water cutters for fabricating parts on the spot.
The third mobile lab is currently under construction and due to deploy around June this year, reported Foxnews.
The mobile lab is a 20-foot container, costs $2.8 million, that can be transported by truck or helicopter to any location.
"Soldiers walk into the lab and say, 'this is my problem.' The PhDs then do the work and show it to the soldiers. The soldiers give them feedback," and they work together tinkering with the tech until it is exactly fit for purpose, explained Westley Brin, product manager with the REF.
(A commonly used Army-issue flashlight has raised, exposed button that allow the light to be accidently turned on in pocket or pouch. This guard was developed and printed to prevent accidental power up and to save batteries. (Army Rapid Equipping Force) )
Engineers can work together inside each mobile lab to use 3D printers and CNC Machining systems to create plastic, steel and aluminum parts as they desire. This will help accelerating the design and production process and reducing the pressure of logistics. And the front-line users can give feedback of design immediately. Through this approach the U.S. Army plans to enhance the sustainability of individual combat and small forward operating bases (FOB).
本站所有文章版权归3ders.org所有,未经许可不得翻译或转载。
Posted in 3D Printing Applications
Maybe you also like:
- 3D printed protein model gives hands-on help for learning the secrets of molecules
- Designer Janne Kyttanen launched 3D printed Macedonia case for iPad
- Artist 3D printing museum replica on a Makerbot Replicator
- OpenStructures WaterBoiler Filter by Unfold
- Rebuilding 74-year-old Morris Eight badge with 3D printing
- One Just One: Unique 3D Printed jewellery on Kickstarter
- 3D printing helps Louisville to crowd-source city planning of 2040
- Where to order 3D-printed iPhone 5 cases?