Three former Duke University football players are tackling sports injuries in a whole new way. Their startup, Protect3d, is harnessing the power of 3D printing to create custom-fit protective gear for athletes, offering a faster, more personalized approach to sports medicine.
3D Printing in Sports Medicine: A Game-Changer
Protect3d was founded by former Blue Devils Daniel Jones, Koby Perez, and Kevin Gehsmann. The idea was born out of necessity when Jones, now a quarterback for the New York Giants, suffered a collarbone injury during his college career. Traditional protective gear didn’t offer the fit or comfort he needed to return to the field safely. That’s when his teammates stepped in, using 3D scanning and printing to create a custom brace that allowed him to play again.
Realizing the potential of this technology, the trio launched Protect3d to bring the same innovation to athletes everywhere. Their process begins with a 3D scan of the athlete’s body, capturing precise anatomical data. This scan is then used to design and print a custom brace or support device tailored to the individual’s injury and body shape.
How Protect3d’s 3D Printing Process Works
The Protect3d workflow is designed for speed and precision. First, a mobile 3D scanner captures the injured area in high detail. This data is uploaded to Protect3d’s design platform, where engineers create a digital model of the brace. The model is then 3D printed using durable, lightweight materials that can withstand the rigors of high-impact sports.
Unlike off-the-shelf braces, Protect3d’s devices are made to fit the athlete perfectly, improving comfort, mobility, and protection. The turnaround time is also significantly faster than traditional methods—often within 24 to 48 hours—making it ideal for athletes who need to return to play quickly.
Applications Beyond Football
While Protect3d’s roots are in football, the technology has broad applications across sports. The company has already worked with athletes in basketball, hockey, and lacrosse, providing custom gear for everything from wrist injuries to rib protection. The personalized nature of the gear not only enhances performance but also reduces the risk of re-injury.
In addition to professional and collegiate athletes, Protect3d is exploring opportunities in youth sports and even military applications, where custom protective equipment can make a significant difference in safety and performance.
The Future of Custom Medical Devices with 3D Printing
Protect3d is part of a growing trend in healthcare and sports medicine that leverages additive manufacturing for personalized treatment. 3D printing allows for rapid prototyping, customization, and on-demand production—key advantages in fast-paced environments like sports.
As the technology matures, we can expect to see even more integration of 3D printing in medical applications, from orthopedic implants to prosthetics. Protect3d’s success demonstrates how athlete-driven innovation can lead to broader advancements in healthcare technology.
With a mission to keep athletes safe and performing at their best, Protect3d is proving that 3D printing isn’t just for prototypes—it’s a powerful tool for real-world impact.
Source: ABC11
