3D4D Challenge Logo
The 3D4D Challenge is being supported by 3D printer and rapid manufacturing machine companies MakerBot and Econolyst.London based technology charity, techfortrade, launched its global 3D4D Challenge. The competition aims to unearth new groundbreaking ideas that exploit developments in 3D printing, mobile phone based scanning technology and web based design applications to improve the incomes and livelihoods of people in developing countries. techfortrade is funding a $100k prize to enable the winning entry to be implemented and it’s hoped that the Challenge will generate enough interest for other entrants to also attract offers of support.
The Challenge is also being supported by 3D printer and rapid manufacturing machine companies MakerBot and Econolyst.
The challenge is open for anyone to enter and entries should focus on the reduction of poverty, aiding the development of local communities. Potential ideas for entries could involve using 3D printed models and parts to improve agriculture practices, water supply or filtration processes, or energy supplies for rural or impoverished areas. An example suggested by techfortrade is creating parts on a 3D printer for broken waterpumps that can then be easily fixed by locals, rather than having to source parts and repairs from elsewhere. The technology could also be used to generate income by manufacturing entirely new products from re-cycled plastic.
To encourage potential entrants to brainstorm ideas with industry experts techfortrade will hold a series of free workshops. The workshops will be held in four international locations:
New York, MakerBot Industries– 12th May 2012
Johannesburg, Hackerspace – 22nd May 2012
London, Westminster Hub – 17th May 2012
Nairobi, Nairobi University FabLab– 25th May 2012
“MakerBot is committed to increasing access to 3D printing technology and to supporting those who can benefit from it,” said Bre Pettis, founder of MakerBot. “Working with techfortrade on 3D4D is an exciting way to encourage innovation and create new ideas and applications for our technology to help improve the lives of people around the world.”
“As a key player in the international 3D printing market, we were very interested in working with techfortrade on the 3D4D Challenge from the start,” said Dr Phil Reeves, Managing Director of Econolyst. “We are pleased to be able to support the competition with our knowledge and expertise of the technology to help benefit those in the global community who are in the greatest need of help.”
“We have yet to tap the full potential of this exciting new technology which presents a great opportunity for poor communities to access the resources that they need to help overcome difficult conditions,” said William Hoyle, Chief Executive of techfortrade. “We look forward to seeing what creative solutions the entrants come up with to help alleviate poverty in developing countries.”
If you would like further information about entering the competition or would like to attend one of the above workshops, please email research@trade4all.org
About 3D4D:
You can apply for the workshops and submit your idea for the challenge at http://www.3d4dchallenge.org
