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All of it started when Todd Borrel was enjoying a soccer recreation on his Xbox when the issue began to come up. His thumbs saved slipping on the joystick controllers inflicting his recreation efficiency to endure. After a number of torturous video games, Borrel determined sufficient was sufficient – he was going to create one thing to unravel his drawback.
He started to think about what his answer could possibly be and the best, most value efficient option to produce it. Borrel began sketching grips on paper that would exchange his present analog sticks on his Xbox controller. He determined to name them Groove Grips. As soon as he had a strong design for his Groove Grips, it was time to look into manufacturing.
A number of choices had been explored, together with casting and molding, however all of these choices had been both very costly or time intensive. Then, Borrel found the magic of 3D printing, one thing that was way more value and time efficient. He simply wanted to show his sketch right into a 3D file.
Losing no time in any respect, Borrel bought SolidWorks, a well-liked CAD design software program. Being an absolute newbie, he determined to buy courses by way of the corporate to be able to be taught what he wanted to as quick as he might. Fairly quickly he had a 3D mannequin of his authentic sketch. With the 3D design in hand, all he wanted subsequent was a printer.
3D Mannequin for Groove Grips
Borrel was on the hunt for the very best 3D printer that would print his Groove Grips and match his price range. He known as MatterHackers and spoke with a specialist who gave him a number of totally different choices to select from. Borrel ended up deciding on the LulzBot TAZ 5 and commenced his journey in 3D printing.
Borrel started printing his authentic design with the plan to simply print all of his prototypes. However, when he noticed the standard the TAZ 5 might ship, he realized that he might truly use 3D printing to provide his product.
A few of Borrel’s first prototypes
Groove Grips Slide Over Thumb Pads
After getting profitable prints from his authentic mannequin, Borrel determined to broaden to different designs for various controllers. For instance, RC truck controllers can now be up to date with Groove Grips.
RC Grips
RC Grips in use
“I wish to give everybody the precision they’re searching for it doesn’t matter what analog stick they might be utilizing. Whether or not it’s for medical doctors or those that function heavy equipment, Groove Grips may give them higher outcomes,” stated Borrel.
The opposite focus Borrel has been engaged on is put up manufacturing of the printed Groove Grips. Utilizing MatterHackers PLA, Borrel took a while to discover a option to give the Groove Grips a shiny end. After a lot trial and error, he has discovered his solution- Plasti Dip.
“The Plasti Dip offers me simply the end I’m searching for!” stated Borrel.
To excellent his Groove Grips, Borrel has even been engaged on a design for manufacturing line meeting – one thing he hopes to get printed very quickly.
Borrel proves that making a product could be accomplished simply when utilizing 3D printing, and, to not point out – reasonably priced. Even with the acquisition of SolidWorks, a 3D printer and supplies, Borrel nonetheless saved fairly a bit.
“I’ve saved about $100,000 – $150,000 simply by utilizing a 3D printer,” Borrel defined.
Not solely did Borrel save time and cash, however he has a brand new ability to indicate for it – one he picked up in a short time. Borrel is actually an awesome instance in terms of diving proper into 3D printing – when you’ve got an concept, now you’ll be able to see that it solely takes just a few steps to show your concept into one thing that you would be able to bodily maintain and use.
For extra info on Groove Grips you’ll be able to go to www.groovegrips.com or take a look at Borrel’s candy video.
Do you assume you have got what it takes to be our subsequent Hacker of the Month? Merely observe us on Fb/Twitter or e-mail media@matterhackers.com. Inform us about your challenge or 3D printed creation, and you might be featured in our subsequent publication. The Hacker of the Month may also win a free spool of PRO Collection PLA or ABS filament to additional their pursuit of 3D printing greatness.
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