Revolutionizing Insole Production with Precision 3D Printing

A high-speed, zero-waste solution for medical inlays

  • 80% Less Material Waste
  • Automated Continuous Printing
  • 45-Degree Precision Layering

Project Overview

Our custom Insole Printer was designed to revolutionize the production of medical inlays by reducing waste and labor while delivering high-quality, custom-fit solutions for patients. This project brought together the expertise of three partners: one providing the software infrastructure, another supplying the material, and us handling the hardware, firmware, and printer software. The goal was to streamline the insole production process, making it faster, more sustainable, and more efficient.

Why this solution?

The traditional method of producing inlays involves milling each one from a large foam block, a process that is both wasteful and labor-intensive:

  • Waste Reduction: Milling can result in up to 90% of the foam block being discarded, as the material cannot be reused.
  • Labor Efficiency: Current production requires two hours of labor per pair, which is costly and inefficient.
  • Environmental Impact: A 3D printing approach eliminates material waste, using only what’s needed for the insole itself.

By switching to 3D printing, we eliminate nearly all waste and reduce the need for labor-intensive postprocessing. The goal is a compelling business case, offering both environmental benefits and significant cost savings.

How We Built the Insole Printer

To meet the client’s needs, we created a printer based on our FELIX Pro XL platform, modified for high-speed production with foaming TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) material. Here’s how we tackled the challenges to achieve optimal results:

  • High-Speed Printing: To ensure efficient production, the printer operates at 80-100mm/s, an exceptionally high speed for TPU.
  • 45-Degree Angled Printing: This innovative approach allows large layer heights and bigger nozzle sizes without compromising the fine resolution where the foot meets the insole.
  • Automation: Designed for continuous production, the printer resets and begins a new print automatically, allowing for uninterrupted operation over weekends.

Features

  • FELIX Pro XL Base – Our high-performance base platform.
  • 45-Degree Printing Angle – Enables high-quality resolution and faster print speeds.
  • Custom Printhead – Capable of printing foaming TPU at high speed.
  • XYZ Directional Movement – For flexible and accurate inlay shaping.
  • Filament Spool Tray – Ensures efficient filament management.
  • Auto-Cleaning Surface – Prepares the print bed for the next print.
  • Internal Conveyor System – Allows intermittent movement of finished prints.
  • Quick-Swap Printhead – Speeds up maintenance and reduces downtime.

 

Customization Process

1. Feasibility Phase

  • Challenge: Identifying the right material and printhead combination to achieve a high-speed print rate of at least 80mm/s.
  • Solution: After extensive testing, we found an ideal configuration for the printhead and material combination, optimizing the printer for fast, high-quality TPU printing.
  • Innovation: Traditional inlays are printed layer by layer, but to reduce time, we chose a 45-degree angle for printing. This method allows for larger nozzle sizes while maintaining fine resolution at contact points.

2. Prototype Phase

  • Development: We produced an initial prototype with a fixed bed on the older Pro L platform. This version underwent iterative testing, and we later upgraded to the new Pro L platform, adding more advanced features.
  • Custom Slicing Software: Given the unique requirements, we worked with the insole manufacturer’s software developer to create specialized slicing software capable of handling angled prints.

3. 0-Series Phase

  • Refinement: This phase incorporated all improvements from the Pro L platform, using a modular design approach that allowed us to test, adjust, and finalize each component.
  • Outcome: A highly reliable pre-production model, ready for full-scale use.

4. Production Series Phase

  • Final Adjustments: After implementing the last updates, we moved into full production, functioning as an OEM partner for this custom printer.
  • Result: A complete batch of high-quality insole printers, designed for ongoing use in the client’s production line.

Client Success & Sustainability Impact

Our client has already seen significant improvements in their production process, including:

  • Up to 90% Material Savings: Virtually no waste compared to traditional milling.
  • Reduced Labor Requirements: Less postprocessing required, saving hours per week.
  • Environmentally Friendly: A sustainable production method that eliminates foam waste.

This project demonstrates how custom 3D printing technology can streamline production, reduce costs, and promote sustainable manufacturing practices.

See It in Action

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