Simplifyber, the developer of 3D printed clothing and footwear technology, has announced that it has raised $3.5 million in its first round of funding from At One Ventures.
The startup's first products will hit the market next year, according to Fast Company.
The sneaker prototypes that are supposed to be this first mass-produced product have already been printed, and the startup's potential partner brands can appreciate its advantages.
Simplifyber scientists have radically rethought the process of making clothes and shoes: now there is no need to sew or weave, but simply stamp the desired pattern.
The startup uses liquid cellulose (a mix of wood pulp and other plants) as "fabric" in 3D printing devices.
"We created a new cloth-like material using some knowledge from the paper industry, but that's where the similarity to paper ends," says Maria Intscher-Ovrang, co-founder and CEO of the startup. it is very similar to leather.” .
Maria also highlights that by varying the density of the material, it is possible to create different textures in different parts of the product.
For example, the designers were able to integrate "yarns" of various thicknesses and strengths into the prototype shoe, and the soles were often printed with a different material (in collaboration with HP).
In addition, the technology allows the "maximum individualization" of clothing and footwear models.
“You can even make a cast of the foot or figure based on the scan results so that the product fits you exactly,” explains Maria Intscher-Ovrang.
Models, as in the case of anything else 3D printed, are created in special computer programs. The result is a completely finished t-shirt or sneakers.
The final products are biodegradable. They can also be reused in the manufacture of new models.
The startup plans to launch the first models at the end of the year and then launch them on the market. But then he intends to start mass production.
The founders believe that this method of creating clothes and shoes can become even more accessible than traditional technologies.
While greener materials tend to cost more these days, the company has a vision to change that and achieve production volumes comparable to classic but more environmentally friendly materials.
Author:
Ekaterina Alipova
Source: RB
I am Bret Jackson, a professional journalist and author for Gadget Onus, where I specialize in writing about the gaming industry. With over 6 years of experience in my field, I have built up an extensive portfolio that ranges from reviews to interviews with top figures within the industry. My work has been featured on various news sites, providing readers with insightful analysis regarding the current state of gaming culture.
