The design development of KnifeGuard is an example of an efficient and effective design process utilising low-cost 3D printing.
KnifeGuard is a new product designed by Miles Park and tested by our first year Industrial Design students. The product is now being manufactured in volume and will be distributed by Draftex
The product was developed in response to a need for an improved finger safety shield for use when cutting with a steel straight edge and utility knife.
3D printing enabled a range design concepts to be prototyped accurately and efficiently. These initial prototypes were built in ABS plastic, reflective of material qualities envisaged for the production pieces, and without the need of a workshop.
In addition, 3D printing enabled the batch production of 65 KnifeGuard prototypes. These were disturbed to year 1 students as part of their technical materials pack.
The design went through further refinements and a final prototype was 3D printed for approval for mass production.
Low-cost 3D Printing 