Sports equipment manufacturer Wilson has unveiled the first-ever 3D-printed airless basketball in its prototype phase. The prototype was first shown to the public by Houston Rockets forward KJ Martin during his second attempt at the NBA Slam Dunk contest. The prototype was designed by the Wilsons Lab team which General Lattice worked on computational design services, DyeMansion for color and finishing, and EOS for additive manufacturing. Wilson's Team Sports General Manager Kevin Murphy spoke about the unveiling of the prototype, saying: "We are so proud to unveil Wilson’s 3D Airless Prototype basketball as a physical manifestation of our continued commitment to sport innovation."
This black-colored 3D-printed airless basketball does not require any inflation as the prototype relies on the unique structure and researched materials to copy the bounce movement of a real basketball. The prototype follows the design of a traditional NBA-approved basketball and the surface of the ball is filled with hexagonal holes, which air can pass through it without restrictions. The prototype was a success during the NBA Slam Dunk contest; it did not break down or tear during any of the dunk attempts. As the 3D-printed airless basketball is still in the prototype phase, further improvements and research will be made to enhance it, but there are no plans to alter the official NBA game ball.
3D-Printed Airless Basketballs
Wilson Unveiled the First 3D-Printed Airless Basketball Prototype
Trend Themes
1. 3d-printed Sports Equipment - Advancements in 3D printing technology are disrupting the sports equipment industry, allowing for more customized and innovative products.
2. Airless Sports Balls - The development of airless sports balls is revolutionizing the sports equipment industry, reducing maintenance costs and improving play experience.
3. Computational Design Services in Sports Equipment - Sports equipment manufacturers are utilizing computational design services to create more precise and efficient products.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Equipment Manufacturing - The sports equipment manufacturing industry has potential for disruption as companies adopt 3D printing and computational design services to create innovative products.
2. Additive Manufacturing - The additive manufacturing industry is at the forefront of developing new 3D printing materials and technologies.
3. Professional Sports Leagues - Professional sports leagues have opportunities for innovation and improvement by integrating airless sports balls like Wilson's 3D-printed basketball prototype into their games.