MakerGear Takes Gold at the USAF Advanced Manufacturing Olympics
Updated: Jan 28
The US Air Force Rapid Sustainment Office (RSO) invited teams from around the country to compete in the first-ever Advanced Manufacturing Olympics (AMO). They crafted five challenges, with each challenge aimed at solving a significant sustainment issue related to legacy aircraft and weapons platforms.
Team MakerGear chose to compete in the Technical Data Package (TDP) Relay. Each team was given an identical 3D model (STL) and had to determine the best way to 3D-print the part so that it met or exceeded the Air Force's testing specifications. The model was of an air duct component that needed to withstand being pressurized to 10 psi, hold at least 200 pounds and be printed within the design tolerances. MakerGear printed the winning part on their own proven and reliable workhorse, the MakerGear M3.
Their practical approach resulted in an inexpensive and easy-to-print part that not only exceeded the challenge requirements but received a "nearly unanimous" perfect score according to RSO Program Executive Director, Lt. Gen. Shaun Morris.
"Thank you USAF RSO for creating the Advanced Manufacturing Olympics and envisioning an event that celebrates additive manufacturing. We are honored to have won gold and very much appreciate the $100,000 prize!”
Contact:
MakerGear, LLC
23632 Mercantile Rd. Unit G
Beachwood, OH 44122
216-765-0030