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Introduction The field of orthotics and prosthetics has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, thanks to the rapid advancement of 3D printing technology. Traditional methods of creating orthotic and prosthetic devices often involved laborious and time-consuming processes, resulting in products that were less customized and often uncomfortable for patients. However, the integration of 3D printing has revolutionized these industries, enabling the creation of highly personalized, efficient, and cost-effective solutions that significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals in need of orthotic and prosthetic devices. Personalized Solutions for Enhanced Comfort One of the most significant benefits of 3D printing in orthotics and prosthetics is the ability to create personalized solutions tailored to each individual's unique needs. Traditional manufacturing methods often relied on manual adjustments and one-size-fits-all designs, which could lead to discomfort and decreased functionality for the patients. With 3D printing, clinicians can now use precise digital scans and models of a patient's body to create customized devices that perfectly fit their anatomy. The use of 3D printing allows for intricate designs that are otherwise challenging or impossible to achieve with traditional methods. Patients can benefit from orthotic insoles, braces, and prosthetic limbs that not only fit snugly but also distribute pressure evenly and provide better support. This level of customization not only enhances comfort but also improves the overall effectiveness of the devices in addressing the patient's specific condition. Faster Prototyping and Production 3D printing has drastically shortened the timeline for prototyping and production of orthotic and prosthetic devices. In the past, creating a new design or making adjustments to an existing one could take weeks or even months. With 3D printing, designers and clinicians can rapidly iterate through various designs and make real-time adjustments based on patient feedback. This iterative process leads to faster development and delivery of devices, allowing patients to receive their orthotics or prosthetics in a more timely manner. Moreover, the digital nature of 3D printing enables easy storage and retrieval of patient-specific designs. This is particularly valuable for patients who may need replacement devices due to wear and tear or changes in their condition. Instead of starting from scratch, clinicians can access the original digital model and make necessary modifications, streamlining the re-fitting process and minimizing disruptions for the patient. Improved Material Selection and Functionality 3D printing has expanded the possibilities for material selection in orthotic and prosthetic devices. Traditional materials, while effective, often limited the design and functionality of these devices. With 3D printing, a wide range of materials can be used, including lightweight yet durable plastics, flexible elastomers, and even biocompatible materials suitable for direct contact with the skin. This versatility in material selection allows for the creation of more functional and aesthetically pleasing devices. For example, 3D-printed prosthetic limbs can incorporate intricate joint mechanisms and advanced articulation, closely mimicking natural movement. Additionally, the lightweight nature of 3D-printed materials reduces the strain on the wearer and contributes to a more comfortable experience. Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility Traditionally, the process of designing, manufacturing, and fitting orthotic and prosthetic devices could be costly, making them inaccessible to many individuals in need. 3D printing has the potential to significantly reduce costs associated with production, as it eliminates many labor-intensive steps and reduces material waste. This cost-effectiveness not only benefits patients directly but also contributes to greater accessibility and affordability of these vital devices. Furthermore, the global reach of 3D printing technology means that even underserved communities can benefit from orthotic and prosthetic solutions. Remote or economically disadvantaged areas can now have access to these devices without the need for extensive infrastructure or transportation. Conclusion The integration of 3D printing technology into the orthotics and prosthetics industries has ushered in a new era of innovation, customization, and accessibility. Patients now have the opportunity to receive devices that are not only tailored to their individual needs but also more functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing. As 3D printing continues to advance, we can expect even more groundbreaking developments that will further enhance the quality of life for individuals in need of orthotic and prosthetic solutions. The future holds the promise of greater accessibility, improved functionality, and an overall higher standard of care for those who rely on these transformative technologies. Tempus 3D  is an HP Certified 3D Printing service bureau located in British Columbia, Canada. Tempus offers 3D printing services using HP MJF  technology, Sinterit  SLS technology, and Formlabs  3D printing technology to offer Nylon PA 12S, TPU, and a wide variety of resins including clear resin in house. Tempus serves clients across Canada and the US, and has next day shipping to most locations in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Spokane, Seattle, and Portland.

Ledcor teams up with Tempus 3D printing to alleviate supply chain issues, improve part design and minimize manufacturing time. Ledcor is North American construction company which was having trouble finding replacements for ball valves used in applying calcium chloride to road surfaces for dust control and other purposes. After making exhaustive attempts to source new valves through their traditional suppliers they were faced with a six month or greater lead-time for delivery. Ledcor approached Tempus for a solution, with the explicit need to get a functioning ball valve in their hands within four weeks. They also wanted to take the opportunity to improve the design of the valve to address historical weak points and improve functionality. The main weak point had been the seam in the parts from where the two injection molded parts had fit together. This seam was prone to holding water and then freezing during the cold Canadian winters, which resulted in the parts cracking and no longer holding a seal. The team at Tempus 3D collaborated with their partners at the Selkirk Technology Access Centre (STAC) part of Selkirk Innovates team ( www.selkirk.ca/innovates ) to re-design the part and manufacture the final product within the specified timeline and deliverables. The original valve was scanned with a Creaform HandySCAN 3D scanner to determine the critical dimensions, and the part was redesigned to improve it’s function and address critical failure points. A prototype of the valve casing was 3D printed and tested for fit and function. After additional design changes, the final product was manufactured using an HP Multi Jet Fusion 5200 3D printer for it’s dimensional accuracy and quality. Nylon PA 12 was selected as the material for its overall durability and resistance to water, chemicals and UV rays. Once printing was complete was sealed with AMT Post Pro vapour smoothing technology to improve water and chemical resistance. Finally, due to the tight dimensional requirements and fit, the low-tolerance surfaces of the valve were machined to ensure exact compliance with the client specifications. This whole process was completed in less than four weeks, and future parts could be manufactured and delivered in less than two weeks. The cost savings to Ledcor were significant, both in terms of saved downtime and overall cost of manufacturing in comparison to the alternative options of injection molding or CNC machining. Ledcor and Tempus continue to look for ways to integrate 3D printing into their operations to reduce their supply chain risk and improve part functionality and quality. With Tempus’ location in the interior of British Columbia, it is uniquely capable of serving markets across Western Canada with cost-effective overnight shipping and the ability to turn around rush orders in as little as 36 hours. We at Tempus feel this is just the beginning of what manufacturing will look like in the future; it will be more responsive, more custom, and more local allowing innovators across sectors to bring products to market quicker and in a more environmentally friendly way. Learn more about the advantages of industrial 3D printing with HP Multi Jet Fusion technology Learn more about reverse engineering with 3D scanning Explore industrial plastics available through Tempus 3D Explore more case studies and articles Tempus 3D  is an HP Certified 3D Printing service bureau located in British Columbia, Canada. Tempus offers 3D printing services using HP MJF  technology, Sinterit  SLS technology, and Formlabs  3D printing technology to offer Nylon PA 12S, TPU, and a wide variety of resins including clear resin in house. Tempus serves clients across Canada and the US, and has next day shipping to most locations in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Spokane, Seattle, and Portland.

By Jace: Selkirk College Student of the Digital Fabrication a Design program. Challenge: When I switched to rechargeable battery packs for my Xbox One controller, I noticed they were slightly larger than regular AA batteries. This made the battery cover either get stuck or put a lot of strain on it. Changing the batteries became a hassle, and I started worrying that I might end up damaging the covers. I was especially concerned that constantly forcing the cover on and off could eventually cause the plastic to crack or warp, shortening the lifespan of the battery covers Xbox battery cover and batteries Solution Options: 1. Buy Rechargeable AAs instead: Rechargeable AA batteries ○ Pros: Purchasing a set of rechargeable AA batteries would resolve the issue of the battery cover fitting properly. There would be no need for modifications or other changes. ○ Cons: The primary downside was that this solution would render my current rechargeable battery packs obsolete. Buying new battery packs would also be an additional cost 2. Make Custom Battery Covers: 3D scanned and repaired CAD model ○ Pros: This would involve designing a custom cover that would provide the necessary space for the slightly larger rechargeable battery pack. The benefit of this option was that I could solve the issue without replacing the battery packs themselves. A custom design would ensure the cover fits snugly without stress. ○ Cons: The difficulty with this solution is the complexity of reverse-engineering the cover. It would require accurate measurements, which could be time-consuming and technically challenging 3. Use No Battery Covers: Original and Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printed battery cover ○ Pros: Removing the battery cover entirely would allow for an easy solution, as there would be no constraints on the battery size. It’s a free and quick fix with no need for further modifications. ○ Cons: The main downside was the exposed batteries. Without a cover, the batteries could easily become dislodged. Additionally, I would risk losing the battery covers over time 4. Force Battery Covers on: Original xbox battery cover ○ Pros: This would allow the existing battery cover to remain in use, ensuring that the protection for the batteries remains. The cover would stay intact, and the batteries would remain secured. ○ Cons: Forcing the cover onto the controller could cause damage, It would also make swapping the battery packs more difficult and cumbersome. Solution Chosen: I decided to proceed with the solution of making custom battery covers. This solution was ideal because it addressed the issue directly without requiring the purchase of new battery packs. Additionally, reverse engineering is fun and the availability of a 3D scanner and Tempus’s printer provided through the DFAB program made this solution practical. Result: The process of creating the custom battery covers began with scanning the original controller case. I used the 3D scanner to get a very close model of the existing battery cover. After gathering the scan data, I took measurements from the battery cover to refine the model. Next, I modified the 3D model to accommodate the slightly larger rechargeable battery pack. Xbox controller with 3D scanned and MJF Multi-Jet Fusion 3D printed replacement battery cover This required adjusting the depth of the compartment where the battery pack would sit, providing the necessary extra space. The only issue encountered was incorrectly estimating the corner radius, which I fixed in my next test. In the future, If I didn't have access to a 3D scanner or the necessary tools for creating a custom cover, I would likely opt for rechargeable AA batteries instead, as they would fit into the existing cover and avoid work with other devices. However, reverse engineering is fun. Overall, the solution was a success. The custom covers provided the additional space needed for the rechargeable battery pack. The stress on the cover was eliminated, and I didn’t experience any issues with forced fit or damage to the covers. Tempus 3D  is an HP Certified 3D Printing service bureau located in British Columbia, Canada. Tempus offers 3D printing services using HP MJF  technology, Sinterit  SLS technology, and Formlabs  3D printing technology to offer Nylon PA 12S, TPU, and a wide variety of resins including clear resin in house. Tempus serves clients across Canada and the US, and has next day shipping to most locations in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Spokane, Seattle, and Portland.

By Yan: Selkirk College Student of the Digital Fabrication a Design program. CAD Model of 3D scanned and repaired ski boot buckle The Problem: A Broken Ski Boot Buckle The part I am working on is from my instructor Shawn, which he received from a repairing business during his visit to KORE summit in Kimberly. It’s a part for footwear according to him, for description purposes in this report, I named it the Ski Boot Buckle. The buckle is an injected plastic part, with an overall dimension of 35´22mm, average thickness of 1.25mm. Without having the radius on edges measured, I observed larger radius added, making the part thinner. It also looks thinner at the junction of edges, where the failure happened, as shown in photo above, I put a staple to open it wider to easily illustrate it. Failure of this tiny part will result the whole boot to be completely useless, as the user can hardly get it to buy separately. Original broken ski boot buckle to be 3D scanned Options for solutions are: # Options Pros Cons 1 Replace with the same part from used boot. • same dimension • same material • with tear and wear • same weakness 2 Replace with a similar part available • may work, saving the boot from completely wasted • compatible, but not perfectly match 3 Replace with a 3D printed part • Reverse engineerable • Same dimension • Optimized structure. • Optimized material. • Saving the whole boot. • Repeatably printable digital file. • More improvement if the printed part fails. — Options for 3D printing materials available: # Material Property 1 PLA • Brittle and prone to cracking or snapping under load • Poor impact resistance • Low flexibility 2 PETG • High impact resistance • Moderate flexibility 3 PA-12 • Very high impact resistance • High flexibility Options for printing methods available: # Material Method Advantages 1 PLA FDM • Have layer lines, prone to delamination. • Strength depending on layer orientation. • Less durable, may fail under extended use. 2 PETG FDM — 3 PA-12 MJF • No support structure, powder supports parts. • High durability and fatigue resistance. With all options compared, the superior solution is to replace the broken buckle with one that is using HP MJF 3D printed, the final parts are shown as: Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printed ski boot buckle Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printed ski boot buckle Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printed ski boot buckle When I received the final printout, I compared it with the original part again by bending it, the original part is brittle and cracked like PS (polystyrene), while the print out has smooth finish requires no further post-processing, it has properties of impact and fatigue resistance that is right for the buckle. The biggest challenge for me was to align the scanned model in VXelements, to create planes and cross sections, and subsequently to transfer the cross sections to fusion as sketches. It was a successful assignment, though the final model surfaces are not parallel, give me an angle of 0.033 deg, as shown in photo: CAD model of 3D scanned and repaired ski boot buckle What I would do to improve is to get more skillful with the scanning process, mesh editing and surfacing in VXelements. Steps in achieving this part shown as: Tempus 3D  is an HP Certified 3D Printing service bureau located in British Columbia, Canada. Tempus offers 3D printing services using HP MJF  technology, Sinterit  SLS technology, and Formlabs  3D printing technology to offer Nylon PA 12S, TPU, and a wide variety of resins including clear resin in house. Tempus serves clients across Canada and the US, and has next day shipping to most locations in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Spokane, Seattle, and Portland.

By Matt: Selkirk College Student of the Digital Fabrication a Design program. Challenge: While taking the windshield wiper blades off at the end of winter, part of the plastic tab broke off leaving the part and wiper blade inoperable. Through a winter of extreme cold weather and snow , combined with washer fluid and UV rays the plastic became brittle. The part broke from the stress of removing it. This part is the cover for the main anchor and pivot point between the “wiper arm” and “wiper blade.” With this broken there is no structural integrity holing the two parts together. Multi-Jet Fusion PA-12 3D printed replacement part for windshield wiper Multi-Jet Fusion PA-12 3D printed replacement part for windshield wiper Options for Solutions: In the past there were limited options to solve this problem. 1. The first option would be to glue the parts back together. Pros - Quick, Simple and Cheap Cons - Broken tab might be lost. Unlikely to hold up against the wear and tear 2. Buy a replacement part. Pros - The replacement part would be brand new and a direct replacement Cons - Ordering a new part involves buying the whole wiper blade. This is roughly a $70 item and is excessive and wasteful considering such a small part is needed. - The new part is just as likely to break in the same spot again in the future. Solution or recommendation: The solution to fix this problem was to scan the broken object and edit the part to restore it to it original design. In doing this it is also possible to reinforce the part in the areas that it is showing weakness. This was done by adding some extra material and changing the shape slightly to reduce stress concentration point. With the file complete traditional FDM was used. Fine details and the complexity of the part did not allow for this to be a high quality option. The high print quality and detail of the Nylon MJF method made it the perfect candidate for this object. 3D scan of original windshield part There were several steps involved in implementing this solution: • Scan the broken object. • The scanned model was edited using VX Elements. This software allowed me to clean up the broken area and mirror the good side. Creating a new symmetrical object. • The model was then cleaned up and smoothed out to remove any imperfections. Critical areas were reinforced to make them more robust. Some of the other contact areas were cleaned to make sure the new part fit true to the original. • Once the model was completed the file was sent to the HP Nylon MJF printer and a new part was made. The biggest challenge was getting the tight tolerances of the contact point to fit. The part does fit and do it’s intended job but there are a few little areas that could be modified slightly to help the part fit perfectly. The repair of the windshield wiper bracket was a success! The test now will be to see how the material will hold up to the Snow, UV and washer fluid of a winter season. Multi-Jet Fusion PA-12 3D printed replacement part for windshield wiper Tempus 3D  is an HP Certified 3D Printing service bureau located in British Columbia, Canada. Tempus offers 3D printing services using HP MJF  technology, Sinterit  SLS technology, and Formlabs  3D printing technology to offer Nylon PA 12S, TPU, and a wide variety of resins including clear resin in house. Tempus serves clients across Canada and the US, and has next day shipping to most locations in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Spokane, Seattle, and Portland.

By Danielle: Selkirk College Student of the Digital Fabrication a Design program. Original and Multi-Jet Fusion 3D printed replacement part The part that I have for our Scan Improve Repair Tempus Case Study is a BBQ foot with a wheel attached. I received this part from one of our instructors, Kailey. She had a friend with a broken part that needed fixing. It was a BBQ foot with a wheel attached. The foot part that attaches the wheel to the leg is the part that needs to be fixed. It would fall off the leg of the barbecue constantly. It would work better and be more stable if it had more support within the structure of the part. It would make it stronger and stay in place every time the client needed to move the unit to use it, clean it or store it away. Original and Multi-Jet Fusion 3D printed replacement part The client found it quite a headache every time they would want to use the BBQ and needed to move it. Fixing the part will relieve that stress of the BBQ falling when moving and someone potentially getting hurt. Fixing the part will also help it not fall and damage other parts of the unit. I ask myself, when I am thinking of a new design or a part that needs enhancements. Things to think about when coming up with solutions for the BBQ foot would be: What is it lacking? Why does this part continue to fail with its intended purpose? The Scan Improve and Repair process was straightforward with this part. The intention of fixing this part is to make it better, stronger, and more durable without falling off, having the unit fail, damaging property, or falling and hurting someone. Shawn, Kailey and I had a discussion on what the part needed and what was going to be the best way to achieve success with this part. We talked about filament, what to extrude if any, maybe thickening the wall with more filament and deeper extrusions along with deeper indents all the way around. We need the to be careful not to change the structure of the part in its original state too much, otherwise, the BBQ leg will not fit will not with the modified part. These are my solutions or recommendations that I must fix this barbecue leg part with the attached wheel. These improvements would be to make this part stronger and with better structure by extruding extra filament to make it tighter, adding to the previous extruded parts. I would do the same with indented parts as well. When the BBQ leg slides inside the leg, it should be stronger and more durable. The steps that I would take to implement a solution for this problem would be starting with scanning the part with a a3D scanner. Many points as I can. Around the outer area and the threats inside. Collecting as much detail as you can is the most important to save for more work later. After the scanning process is done, then I would upload that into VX Elements to create a mesh. Create a mesh and fix the mesh. Fix the holes, make sure it's solid. Then export that out of the VX Elements. Once that is completed it is then uploaded into Fusion 360 to sketch out the part using the mesh you just created. Sketch and then turning that into a 3D model from there. I would export that out of Fusion into an STl file and have it 3D printed. I would make sure that I check the thread count. Measure the bolt size and length and figure out the pitch. For the bottom of the leg in the fusion file, I would make sure that all the extrusions are still a little bit further out to give them more support. Extend them a bit further then the original and fillet it the edges to keep it neat. This will give the part more stability without changing the structure of it too much. Some of the challenges might be not being able to see and capture all the targets. It such an important step to scan properly to be able to get as much information as we can to make that mesh to be able to close it and turn it into a proper file that the 3-D printer can read the thread. Count could be off, measure properly. If the extrusions are not the right dimension. When the leg is put over top of this foot, it'll slip down because the extrusion won't be there to catch it. If I were to do this part again, I would probably do it the same. I like the way this part and the mesh came together very well. The scan was really great detail. We got a lot of information from it. So, it imported into the and then VX Elements, then into Fusion quite well. It was a pretty quick part. Design and create makes changes and implement them to seeing and problems. I think this part was a success. I will hear from the clients. Tempus 3D  is an HP Certified 3D Printing service bureau located in British Columbia, Canada. Tempus offers 3D printing services using HP MJF  technology, Sinterit  SLS technology, and Formlabs  3D printing technology to offer Nylon PA 12S, TPU, and a wide variety of resins including clear resin in house. Tempus serves clients across Canada and the US, and has next day shipping to most locations in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Spokane, Seattle, and Portland.

By Jordon: Selkirk College Student of the Digital Fabrication a Design program. 3D printed saw blade handles The Client, Bruce, had his pull saw break during use, the original part was an injection moulded saw handle with a push button blade release, the two halves of the saw handle were held together with only 2 plastic pins leading to the failure of the part. Bruce wanted a stronger part with a simpler blade attachment method. He asked for a customized grip inspired by Japanese wrapped bamboo handles. Bruce also commented on the original’s nail hole being too small to hang the saw when not in use. We chose to 3D scan the part and reverse engineer the design. The part was printed in MJF nylon PA12 to allow for internal voids to reduce material needed while allowing the part to be made in one piece to add to the strength of the part. MJF technology was chosen over the original injection moulding to allow for more complex geometry and reduce waste, along with the cost difference for custom one-off parts. To further reduce waste, prototyping was done in FDM PLA to ensure that everything would fit in the final part. FDM was not chosen to be the final technology because of layer adhesion and support issues. Showing the first 3D printed prototypes Nylon was chosen over the other materials for the lower cost and higher flexibility to reduce the chance of cracking in the future, 3D printing allowed for part personalization with out making custom injection moulds. The part was printed hollow with 5mm wall thickness to balance strength and weight. Finished 3D printed handle up close Bruce was happy with the results of the repair and the feel and quality of dye used on the nylon. My design was not completely optimized for MJF printing, I had some semi-blind holes that trapped powder and made it difficult to clean and dye evenly. The nylon did offer greater strength and flexibility as expected and should result in a long lasting custom tool that can be handed down for generations. 3D scanning model of the original broken saw handle 3D scanning model of the original broken saw handle Original saw handle fitment Finished Multi-Jet Fusion 3D printed saw blade handle Finished Multi-Jet Fusion 3D printed saw blade handle Tempus 3D  is an HP Certified 3D Printing service bureau located in British Columbia, Canada. Tempus offers 3D printing services using HP MJF  technology, Sinterit  SLS technology, and Formlabs  3D printing technology to offer Nylon PA 12S, TPU, and a wide variety of resins including clear resin in house. Tempus serves clients across Canada and the US, and has next day shipping to most locations in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Spokane, Seattle, and Portland.

At Selkirk College’s Digital Fabrication and Design program, innovation meets real-world problem solving—one layer at a time. With the support of Tempus 3D’s industrial 3D printing services, students recently brought their creative visions to life by reverse engineering broken or outdated parts and replacing them with customized, functional solutions. Here's how they did it: Danielle tackled a frustrating BBQ wheel that wouldn’t stay in place. Her redesigned part was stronger, more stable, and made to last using 3D scanning and modelling. Read here! Jace solved an everyday gamer problem by creating custom Xbox controller battery covers that fit oversized rechargeable packs—no more cracked plastic or battery swaps gone wrong. Read Here! Jordon redesigned a pull saw handle for a better grip, easier blade changes, and longer life. His MJF-printed nylon part combined traditional Japanese styling with modern 3D printing precision. Read Here! Yan rescued a broken ski boot buckle using high-performance PA-12 material and Multi Jet Fusion technology, proving that even small parts can have a big impact. Read Here! Matt repaired a windshield wiper bracket after winter weather had made the original plastic brittle and unusable. Instead of buying an entirely new wiper assembly, he reverse engineered the broken part, reinforced the design, and used MJF nylon to create a precise, durable replacement ready to handle snow, UV rays, and washer fluid. Read Here! Raul explores the design and 3D printing of a custom umbrella handle, created as a thoughtful and functional gift. By combining clay modeling, 3D scanning, and digital design tools, the project demonstrates how additive manufacturing can transform a personal idea into a tangible, ergonomic product. Read Here! These projects are more than class assignments—they’re proof that 3D printing for custom parts is changing the way we repair, prototype, and design. Whether it’s reverse engineering, product improvement, or creating something totally new, these students used cutting-edge tools to make meaningful change. We love supporting each student helping to bring their ideas to life and build real-world skills in advanced manufacturing. We're proud to support the next generation of creators. Tempus 3D  is an HP Certified 3D Printing service bureau located in British Columbia, Canada. Tempus offers 3D printing services using HP MJF  technology, Sinterit  SLS technology, and Formlabs  3D printing technology to offer Nylon PA 12S, TPU, and a wide variety of resins including clear resin in house. Tempus serves clients across Canada and the US, and has next day shipping to most locations in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Spokane, Seattle, and Portland.

By Raul: Selkirk College Student of the Digital Fabrication a Design program. Umbrella with 3D printed handle Almost 2 years ago, I bought a new umbrella which was neat as it opened the other way, opposite to the traditional ones. However, it came with a cheap and hollow handle, which I took on as a personal project because I wanted to design my own custom handle. I started this project while I was living in Vancouver, where rain is a constant element you face in daily life. However, as I no longer live there, I thought it would be a perfect Christmas present for my sister, who does. I decided to scan and repair this project because I found it was the perfect example to show and test how a custom design can be adapted into a commercially generic design and use additive manufacturing to create the new piece. The way I addressed this problem was by getting rid of the previous handle. Then, I used one wooden dowel as a shaft, wrapped it with clay, and had a female friend of mine wrap her hand around it and use it as a template. As this is intended to be a present for my sister, and hand ergonomics vary a lot between a man’s and a woman’s, her help was of great use. 3D Scanning of physical prototype of umbrella handle Once the clay dried and solidified, I scanned the rough shape of the clay handle to get a mesh and start working on my design. I imported the obtained mesh into VX Elements, which helped me a lot to clean up the mesh, shape it with organic curves, and then export it into Fusion 360. The next step I did was to convert it from a mesh into a solid body, where I sculpted some features into the handle such as the inner shaft diameter and its depth. Once I obtained the mesh and edited it in Fusion, I started making modifications between Fusion and VX Elements, which provided me with different results that were getting closer to the desired grip, with the shape of the fingers I wanted and aiming to create organic shapes. Umbrella with 3D printed handle Once I obtained the final piece that I was satisfied with, I engraved my sister's initials on the bottom. I also designed a hole to attach a string to secure the umbrella. Once it was ready, I mounted it on the umbrella to check if the design provided the desired height. Once I confirmed the size was correct, I sent my design to Tempus 3D to bring it to life. I am thrilled with the result! Now, all that is left is to take it to Vancouver and give it to my sister as her Christmas gift. What would I do differently next time? I think next time I would mount the clay on the umbrella from the very beginning to better calculate the dimensions, both the thickness of the piece and the height at which it should be placed. It was a very intuitive process, where each refinement and 3D print of each iteration provided quite different results, so it took many trials to reach the outcome. I also think I would focus more on aesthetic design, as it now serves a functional purpose by adding extra weight to act as a counterbalance, but I feel I need to work on the proportion design. One thing I consider a success is that, since it is a large and solid handle, its weight helps counterbalance and stabilize the weight of the umbrella itself. I believe the final client will have the last word, so it will be important to listen to her feedback, as this is a complete surprise, and the entire design has been based on estimates of her hand proportions and height. Umbrella with 3D printed handle Handle Prototype Clay Model of umbrella handle Umbrella before modification Umbrella before modification Tempus 3D  is an HP Certified 3D Printing service bureau located in British Columbia, Canada. Tempus offers 3D printing services using HP MJF  technology, Sinterit  SLS technology, and Formlabs  3D printing technology to offer Nylon PA 12S, TPU, and a wide variety of resins including clear resin in house. Tempus serves clients across Canada and the US, and has next day shipping to most locations in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest including Alberta, BC, Washington, and Oregon. Serving Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Spokane, Seattle, and Portland from its location in Trail, BC.

From left to right. Robert Tempus 3D CEO, Jordon Production Manager, Jonathan Manufacturing Advisor

How 3D Printing is Taking Aerospace to New Heights The aerospace industry has always been a playground for cutting-edge innovation,and 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is one of the most exciting technologies transforming this field. From lighter aircraft components to faster production cycles, the impacts of 3D printing are nothing short of revolutionary. Let’s explore how this technology is reshaping the skies 1. Lightweight 3D Printed Aerospace Parts One of the most significant advantages of 3D printing in aerospace is its ability to produce lightweight yet strong components. Traditional manufacturing methods often result in heavier parts due to design limitations. However, 3D printing allows engineers to create intricate geometries that minimize weight without compromising strength. This "lightweighting" improves fuel efficiency, extends aircraft range, and reduces carbon emissions—key priorities for modern aviation[1][2][4]. 2. Faster Aerospace Prototyping and Production Gone are the days when prototyping took months. With 3D printing, aerospace companies can design and produce prototypes in a matter of hours or days. This rapid iteration accelerates innovation and shortens development timelines for new aircraft or spacecraft designs. It also enables faster testing and refinement, ensuring safer and more efficient final products[1][4][6]. 3. Cost Savings from 3D Printed Aerospace Components 3D printing eliminates the need for expensive molds and tooling used in traditional manufacturing. It also reduces material waste by using only what’s necessary to build each component. Additionally, on- demand production means fewer spare parts need to be stockpiled, cutting storage costs and streamlining supply chains[4][7][9]. 4. Enhanced Aircraft Maintenance and Repair Aircraft maintenance often involves long lead times for replacement parts. With 3D printing, airlines can produce custom spare parts directly at maintenance hubs, reducing downtime and keeping planes in the air longer. This capability is particularly useful for older aircraft models where spare parts may no longer be readily available[7][9]. 5. Driving Aerospace Design Innovation with 3D printing Perhaps the most exciting aspect of 3D printing is its ability to unlock new design possibilities. Engineers can create complex shapes and structures that were previously impossible or too costly to manufacture traditionally. This opens doors to improved aerodynamics, better heat resistance, and entirely new functionalities in aerospace components[2][6][8]. 6. Sustainability Benefits of Additive Manufacturing in Aerosapce In an industry under pressure to reduce its environmental impact, 3D printing offers significant sustainability advantages. By minimizing material waste and enabling lighter designs, it contributes to lower energy consumption during both manufacturing and operation. Some studies suggest reductions in CO2 emissions of up to 75% when additive manufacturing is used strategically[4][8] The Sky’s the Limit As 3D printing technology continues to evolve, its role in aerospace will only grow more prominent. From improving efficiency and reducing costs to enabling groundbreaking designs, additive manufacturing is helping the aerospace industry reach new heights—literally and figuratively. The future? Safer, greener, and more innovative aircraft that push the boundaries of what’s possible So next time you board a plane, remember: there’s a good chance that some of its parts were born from a 3D printer! Sources [1] HOW 3D PRINTING IS CHANGING THE AEROSPACE INDUSTRY Add a little bit of body text [2] The Impact of 3D Printing in the Aerospace Industry Add a little bit of body text [3] Revolutionizing the Aerospace Industry: 3D Printing Solutions for ... Add a little bit of body text [4] The Future of 3D Printing in Aerospace Manufacturing Add a little bit of body text [5] The Current State of the Art and Advancements, Challenges, and ... Add a little bit of body text [6] Advancements in 3D Printing are Revolutionizing the Aerospace ... Add a little bit of body text [7] 3D Printing for Aerospace: introduction, advantages and applications Add a little bit of body text [8] Additive manufacturing in aeronautics: the future of aircraft Add a little bit of body text [9] 3D Printing in Aerospace Industry – Raise3D Add a little bit of body text

At Tempus 3D, we love working with Canadian businesses to turn ideas into reality. Every day, we see the impact that high-quality 3D printing in Canada has on companies of all sizes—helping them cut costs, speed up production, and bring innovative products to market. From small startups to established industries, we’re here to make digital manufacturing in Canada more accessible, and we take pride in being part of their success stories.  Making the Leap from Prototyping to Production  We’ve talked to countless businesses that struggle with the jump from prototype to full production. Traditional manufacturing methods can be expensive, slow, and rigid. That’s where we come in. Tempus 3D provides industrial 3D printing services in Canada that help businesses move smoothly from concept to final product. Using HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing, we create durable, high-performance parts that are ready for real-world use—whether in aerospace, medical, consumer goods, or beyond.  Helping Canadian Companies Push the Boundaries  One of our favourite things is seeing how diverse Canadian businesses use 3D printing technology in their own unique ways. We’ve worked with startups designing wearable medical devices, agricultural businesses creating custom equipment parts, and drone manufacturers refining lightweight, high-strength components.  Take, for example, the orthotics industry. By working with Tempus 3D, Canadian orthotics providers can produce custom, patient-specific 3D-printed foot orthotics with unmatched precision and speed. Instead of waiting weeks for traditionally manufactured orthotics, patients get the perfect fit in a fraction of the time. It’s partnerships like these that make a real difference in people’s lives, and we’re honoured to be part of that process.  Helping Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Grow  We understand that Canadian small businesses often face challenges when it comes to manufacturing. High setup costs, minimum order requirements, and long production cycles can make it tough to compete. Tempus 3D helps by offering low-to-mid volume production runs without the need for expensive molds. This allows entrepreneurs and product developers to iterate quickly, manufacture on demand, and avoid the risks of overproduction.  Making Sustainability a Priority  We know that more and more Canadian companies are looking for ways to reduce waste and build sustainability into their operations. That’s why we love the efficiency of 3D printing for sustainable manufacturing—it uses only the material needed, cuts down on transportation emissions by keeping production local, and allows for lightweight part designs that improve overall efficiency. It’s a win for both businesses and the planet.  More Than a Service Provider—A Manufacturing Partner  At Tempus 3D, we don’t just print parts; we guide our clients through the 3D printing process to ensure they get the best possible results. We help businesses navigate material selection, part optimization, and production planning so they can make the most of industrial 3D printing. Whether it’s an aerospace company refining high-performance components or a product developer bringing their latest creation to life, we’re here to support Canadian businesses with reliable, high-volume additive manufacturing.  Let’s Build Something Great Togethe r  If you have an idea or a 3D printing manufacturing challenge, we’d love to hear about it! Whether you’re a small business, a startup, or a large enterprise, Tempus 3D is here to help bring your vision to life. Get in touch with us today to learn more about industrial 3D printing in Canada and let’s create something amazing together.