3D printing and 3D scanning use has rapidly grown in the automotive industry. The latest news comes from BMW which has introduced a 3D printed flexible finger cot. The aim of this latest design is to protect employees against excess strains on their thumb joints as they undertake specific assembly activities. The aim is to provide workers with the best-possible support in production and in support areas.

BMW is now fabricating these orthotic devices in-house with the help of 3D printing, in collaboration with the Department of Ergonomics at the Technical University of Munich. Each of the flexible assembly aids is a unique piece that has been customized to match the size and form of the hand of the worker.

These orthotic devices are used in the assembly area where the rubber plugs are fitted. These need to be pressed in with the thumb and close, among other things, the drain holes for the coat of paint. Even for individuals who have strong hand muscles, such movement does entail a certain degree of effort. In order to avoid overstretching the thumb joint unnecessarily, the company has now developed the finger cots that are put over the thumb and serve as a second skin.

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Bill Besim