3D Printing for Humanitarian Relief: The Printer Problem

Abstract

The 72-hour time period immediately following a natural disaster is when the affected people are in the most need of relief aid [1]. During this time period, relief aid organizations suffer from bottlenecked and expensive supply chains that are required to transport items to a post-disaster area. In addition to these complexities, communication about what supplies are needed in the affected areas is often minimal or completely cut off. Therefore, relief organizations must rely on estimates to decide on what supplies are brought and the quantity of said supplies. There is a need for a way to provide those affected by disaster with exactly the supplies needed to increase the speed and effectiveness of the relief aid supply chain. Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is common type of 3D printing technology that demonstrates the capabilities needed to help solve the problems in the relief aid supply chain. In this paper the use of 3D printing in disaster relief scenarios is reviewed, and a new 3D printer designed specifically for use in disaster relief efforts is introduced. Commercially available 3D printers are designed to operate in stationary, low-stress environments, usually a home or office. Because of this, current 3D printers are not designed for frequent travel, operation in harsh outdoor environments, or use away from reliable power sources and are therefore not well suited for humanitarian relief situations. These attributes are critical needs for equipment that is operated in disaster relief areas. The 3D printer developed herein is designed to succeed where other printers fail by being portable, durable, and off-grid capable. The design addressed portability by maximizing the build-volume-to-footprint ratio. This was down with the implementation of a novel X and Z linear motion control, and fold-able frame design. Durability was considered by the use of a sturdy frame, isolated electronics, and ability to be enclosed from the environment. Lastly the integration of an integrated battery system gives the printer the ability to operate off-grid. This paper discusses the design considerations for this technology, as well as the importance of portability, off-grid capability, and durability as design features for a 3D printer to be used in humanitarian relief scenarios.