HP Partners with Johnson & Johnson for 3D Printed Health Solutions

It may have taken a few years to get rolling, but HP has entered the additive manufacturing (AM) field at a run. Not only has the company announced firm plans to begin moving 3D printing systems, it has done so with a full court press of information. Potential buyers aren’t left with “contact us” forms for pricing, or limited technical specs; HP is putting it all forward for its new Jet Fusion 3D printers.

Nor are the new systems a solution seeking a problem. Leveraging years of relations with other companies, HP has already begun releasing information about its “partner ecosystem,” which already boasts working relationships with companies such as BMW, Nike, and Siemens. A recent announcement of a partnership with Johnson & Johnson shows HP is determined to extend its reach into all realms touched by 3D printing.

The health and medical field is exploding with new ideas about how to use AM to provide a better quality of life for patients, and plans to assist doctors and other medical workers with 3D printed medical devices. HP’s deal with Johnson & Johnson will create a combined team of experts dedicated to developing 3D printed solutions for orthopedics, eye health and a variety of consumer products just for a start.

“The intersection of technology and health care is spurring innovation that will have a profound impact on patients and consumers all over the world,” said Sandra Peterson, group worldwide chairman, Johnson & Johnson.  “Combined with advances in data mining and software, 3D printing could enable distributed manufacturing models and patient-specific products, therapies and solutions that deliver better outcomes, better economics and improved global accessibility.  This collaboration with HP Inc. exemplifies our commitment to harnessing new technology to improve outcomes and reduce costs across the health continuum.”

3D printed health products offers the potential for bespoke solutions to existing and future health concerns. The most obvious and easiest to produce examples include printing eyeglass frames with a perfect fit, insole support that has been customized to patient needs, and new takes on old ideas such as casts and splints.

This particular partnership shows HP has done its homework regarding the future of AM. While AM for healthcare may not be the sexiest application for 3D printing, it has the potential for nearly unlimited future growth. Below you’ll find a video about HP’s new AM system.

Source: Johnson & Johnson