If you have not already seen this video of Derby the dog and how 3D printing helped him run, you must see it.  Yes it’s a heart-warming story, but it’s also an excellent example of engineering design and problem solving.

Derby was born with a congenital deformity characterized by small forearms and no front paws. While always cheerful, Derby was, until now, only able to get around on soft surfaces. Hard surfaces, like sidewalks, cause severe abrasions on his front extremities. Tara Anderson, a 3D Systems employee, decided to help Derby using 3D technology.

The result was an unusual prosthetic that let’s Derby run with his new owners.  And there is not much else that is as joyful as a dog enjoying running again.

Leslie Langnau
llangnau@wtwhmedia.com