Lowe’s introduces 3-D part printing

Lowe's Innovation Labs, the disruptive innovation hub of Lowe’s Companies, Inc., is introducing in-store and online 3D printing and scanning services to provide homeowners a simple, fun experience designing and producing hard-to-find replacement parts and unique decor items for personal expression throughout their home.

Beginning today at the Orchard Supply Hardware store in Mountain View, California, or online at Osh.com, customers can customize the color, shape and material of products, including light switch plates, address plates, door handles and cabinet knobs. For the first time in a retail setting, customers can also scan certain items, such as out of production antique home accents, to create 3D models for printing.

“The home is very personal and 3D printing gives homeowners unprecedented access to build items that reflect their individuality,” said Kyle Nel, executive director of Lowe’s Innovation Labs. “Until now, it’s been hard for the average consumer to benefit from this technology because of the cost and complexity, so we are bringing customers an approachable and affordable customization experience.”

Lowe’s Innovation Labs developed this project in partnership with Authentise, which provides secure distribution tools for 3D printing and helps companies execute 3D innovation through its subsidiary Authentise Services. “Our partnership with Authentise enabled us to rapidly develop 3D solutions in a way that is core to home improvement and positions Lowe’s at the forefront of the digital manufacturing revolution,” Nel said.

Items can be printed in-store in plastic, or ordered in materials ranging from metal to ceramic for shipment direct to the customer. A dedicated 3D print and design specialist will assist customers in the store throughout the process and facilitate the pickup of printed items.

“3D printing and scanning are changing the way we produce, deliver and interact with objects,” said Andre Wegner, CEO of Authentise. “We are delighted to have helped Lowe’s create a solution that makes these changes relevant to its customers, while building a scalable platform to support future demand.”

The partnership with Authentise is the second initiative developed as a result of Lowe’s Innovation Labs’ relationship with Singularity University and SU Labs, a program that connects corporate innovation teams with startups and other organizations to explore exponentially accelerating technologies and create new sustainable business

Source : Lowe's Press Release
http://media.lowes.com/pressrelease/homeimprovementgetspersonalwith3dprintingandscanning/