JPM Industries Enhances Medical Equipment Design with 3D Printing and Raise3D Printers

JPM Industries embraced 3D printing to optimize its design process, previously reliant on CNC and outsourced services. With Raise3D printers, they now produce durable, high-quality nylon parts in-house, accelerating development and reducing costs. Notable innovations include their Care Station, a fully 3D-printed solution assisting wheelchair-bound parents with infant care.

Introduction

JPM Industries PL, a leading medical and rehab equipment design company based in Bonnells Bay, NSW, has successfully integrated Raise3D 3D printers from Bilby3D into its operations. With over 30 years of experience servicing clients in Australia, England, Poland, Germany, and China, JPM Industries has embraced 3D printing to enhance its design and prototyping processes.

Challenges Faced

Before adopting 3D printing, JPM Industries relied on CNC machines and outsourced 3D printing services for prototyping parts. However, this process was time-consuming and costly, often resulting in delays and high expenses for design iterations. The need for a more efficient and cost-effective solution became evident.

Solution

In 2018, JPM Industries began using 3D printing as a primary manufacturing method and upgraded in 2022 to the Raise3D Pro3 purchased from Bilby3D. Willis Hetherington, the Technical Director, highlighted the excellent product support from Bilby3D as a key factor in their decision. By owning Raise3D printers, JPM Industries gained the ability to produce high-quality glass-filled nylon parts in-house, significantly speeding up the development process and reducing reliance on external suppliers.

Practical Applications

Prototype Verification

JPM Industries uses the Raise3D Pro3-Series printers to create printed prototypes, primarily for verifying part specifications before proceeding to injection tool design and manufacture. This step ensures accuracy and functionality, reducing the risk of costly errors during mass production.

Capsule Lock Plate Printed in PAGF (Nylon with Glass Fiber)

Capsule Pivot Cover Printed in CoPA(Nylon)

Capsule Carriage Cover Printed in CoPA(Nylon)

Capsule Pivot Bushing Printed in CoPA (Nylon)

Capsule Handle Printed in ABS Glow in the Dark

Capsule Handle Printed in ABS Glow in the Dark

Glass-Filled Nylon Parts

TThe company produces various high-quality glass-filled nylon components, such as the capsule lock plate, capsule carriage cover, capsule pivot cover, actuator clamp, and pivot bush. These parts are crucial for the functionality and durability of their medical and rehab equipment.

Specialised Components

In addition to nylon parts, JPM Industries manufactures specialised components like the ABS green glow-in-the-dark capsule handle and pivot lock handle. These unique parts enhance the usability and safety of their products.

The Care Station:

One notable project utilising Raise3D printed parts is "The Care Station," designed to assist wheelchair-bound parents with infant care. Constructed entirely from 3D printed parts, The Care Station clamps to the side of a wheelchair frame, providing solutions for breastfeeding and daily hygiene care.


Renders of the Completely 3D Printed Care Station

Conclusion

JPM Industries has effectively leveraged the capabilities of Raise3D Pro3-Series printers to revolutionise their prototyping and design processes. The versatility and reliability of the printers, coupled with support from Bilby3D, have enabled the company to produce high-quality parts in-house, drastically reduce costs, and accelerate product development. The successful integration of 3D printing technology has positioned JPM Industries as a leader in the medical and rehab equipment design industry, ensuring they continue to deliver innovative and reliable solutions to their clients worldwide.

Medical Case Studies