HP 3D Printing and Cimquest: Innovating Custom Solutions for J-DAMMIT

HP 3D Printing and Cimquest: Innovating Custom Solutions for J-DAMMIT

In September, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) and its Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Materials, STORMWERX, once again hosted the Joint-Defense Advanced Manufacturing Meeting for Innovation and Transition Summit, better known as J-DAMMIT. J-DAMMIT brings together experts from industry, academia, government, and the armed forces to explore and demonstrate cutting-edge manufacturing technologies that support defense needs. The event includes hands-on demonstrations in areas such as robotics, additive manufacturing, CNC machining, hybrid manufacturing (CNC and DED), augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR), and smart factory technologies. Through demos, collaborative discussions, and hands-on experiences, it’s a key opportunity for networking and learning about how these innovations can be applied to support military operations and the modern Warfighter, as well as the broader defense industry.

The event took place at Harrisburg University, and offered hands-on opportunities focused in the UPMC Health Sciences Tower. The facility is HU’s newest addition to its campus: A state-of-the-art, 11-story, 260,000-square-foot education and research tower in downtown Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, which includes the University’s advanced manufacturing labs and reception spaces.

The Project: Custom Sunglasses for J-DAMMIT

Cimquest’s Jim Snodgrass was involved in the planning and organization of J-DAMMIT and wanted a way to be involved in a new innovative way this year, so he wanted to give out “Made in the USA” sunglasses to the VIP sponsors of the event. The challenge was to find customizable sunglasses available in large volumes for less than $100 a pair. After an exhaustive search, it became clear that traditional manufacturing methods could not meet these requirements. With only two weeks left before the event, Cimquest’s Jim Snodgrass reached out to William Zambrano, an optometrist in Florida and the owner of ICEyewear.com. Will was eager to help and suggested using 3D printing to create the custom sunglasses. Leveraging his HP 580 3D printer, Will sourced the lenses and printed the frames. The frames were then sent to AMT for vapor smoothing to ensure a polished finish. Upon receiving the smoothed frames, Will meticulously cut and assembled the lenses, demonstrating his expertise and dedication.

Mock-up Designed by William Zambrano & Jim Snodgrass

Finished Sunglasses in a variety of military colors

Outcome & Impact

Thanks to the collaborative efforts and innovative use of HP’s 3D printing technology, we successfully produced 100 pairs of custom sunglasses just in time for the J-DAMMIT event. These sunglasses were distributed to attendees who donated to the Harrisburg University scholarship fund, raising an impressive $10,000. Special thanks to HP for sponsoring the printed materials and other associated costs, making this project a resounding success. This project not only showcased the capabilities of HP’s 3D printing technology but also highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in overcoming manufacturing challenges. The success of this initiative underscores the potential of additive manufacturing in creating customized, high-quality products efficiently and cost-effectively.

 

Contact us to find out how 3D Printing can revolutionize your project or business.