Hardware Podcasts

Ray Fikes | Prosthetics and Hacking 3D Printers

Being an Engineer · 19 May 2023 · 45m · Episode 19

What this episode covers

Ray Fikes, founder of Fikes Brace & Limb, explains how he has used 3D printing, laser scanning, and CNC machining to solve complex prosthetic challenges over 40 years. He details his proprietary 'vase mode' 3D printing techniques using PETG and Combscan iPhone scanning to create diagnostic sockets, while relying on carbon fiber layup for definitive devices. Fikes discusses the critical importance of alignment, volume fluctuation management, and the 'blanching' technique to prevent tissue damage, alongside his development of custom swim fins and rapid wrap systems.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Fikes Brace & Limb
Products
Combscan
Chips
FSR
Tools
Meshmixer, Fusion 360, Simplify3D
Materials
PETG

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