Philips Launches Fixables: 3D Printed Replacement Parts Available

Key Takeaways

1. Philips launched ‘Fixables’, a platform for 3D printable components to reduce waste from broken or missing parts of personal health items.
2. Currently, the platform offers a 1-3mm comb for the Philips OneBlade, with plans for additional parts in the future.
3. Users can request new parts, but the 3D printed components will not replace original parts.
4. The initiative first launched in the Czech Republic, in collaboration with Pura Research, and may expand to other countries based on its success.
5. Philips encourages contributions from repair professionals and 3D printing enthusiasts to enhance the project.

In an effort to keep its products out of landfills caused by a broken piece or missing accessory, Philips has unveiled ‘Fixables’, a platform that allows owners of its personal health items to download printable files for any broken or missing components and then use a 3D printer to create them.

A New Resource for Customers

The goal of Fixables is to create a library of 3D printable components for Philips products. As of now, the Fixables site offers just one part, which is a 1-3mm comb designed for the Philips OneBlade. The page for each part includes essential details like the estimated print time, the material suggested—which is PLA for this part—and the layer height. Additionally, it displays outlines of two future parts: a 7-24mm comb and a 3-15mm comb for a Philips clipper.

User Input Welcomed

Philips has mentioned that it will take requests from users for parts that aren’t currently available on the site. Still, it’s important to note that these 3D printed components will not serve as replacements for original parts. Given that many customers have voiced concerns over the high price of original parts and the lengthy waiting times for delivery, it’s likely that a significant number of people will choose to 3D print their parts instead.

Launching in the Czech Republic

Philips Fixables has first launched in the Czech Republic, due to its collaboration with Pura Research, a company that specializes in 3D printing technology and is located there. The initiative is in its initial testing stage, and Philips has stated that if it proves successful, it will be rolled out to other nations. Moreover, the company is inviting repair professionals and 3D printing fans to contribute to the project.

Source:
Link