Rheinmetall invests in 3D Printing with GoProto

3D scanning and printing business GoProto ANZ has successfully delivered locally printed 3D products to Rheinmetall Defence Australia (RDA) as part of its Lynx armoured fighting vehicle (pictured) bid under defence’s Land 400 Phase 3 program.

GoProto, which recently joined with Wysiwyg 3D, engaged with RDA’s Team Lynx using a range of digital technologies to design prototype solutions.

GoProto 3D printed a range of functional components with Multi-Jet Fusion technology with properties to rival injection moulding.

Delivered components included handles and communications panels will now under extensive user testing.

The design changes proposed in the 3D printed components aim to improve the soldier’s capability in integration, networking and communications, according to GoProto.

Three LYNX vehicles are currently competing in Risk Mitigation Activity trials conducted in Australia, putting the vehicles through a range of trials including lethality, mobility and blast tests.

If successful, the LYNX fleet will be manufactured in Queensland at Rheinmetall’s new Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence at Redbank south west of Brisbane.

GoProto ANZ managing director said: “GoProto’s 3D printing technology allowed quick, clear and efficient communication around the design of the vehicle connectivity package involving teams juggling work from home lockdowns in different states.

“As a SME offering local additive manufacturing services, we are able to respond quickly to design challenges and put different prototypes with full production functionality into the hands of the Rheinmetall team.

Picture:GoProto

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