3D technology is revolutionizing football beyond colorful boots. From biomechanical analysis to the creation of custom insoles, these tools allow players to optimize their performance and prevent injuries. A clear example is the manufacturing of custom mouthguards through intraoral scanning, offering a perfect fit and impact protection.
Modeling and analysis with specialized software ⚙️
To design these protectors, programs like Blender or Meshmixer are used, which model the exact geometry of the footballer's mouth. The process begins with a handheld 3D scanner (such as the Einscan Pro) that captures the teeth. Then, the STL file is imported into simulation software like SolidWorks to analyze the distribution of forces during a header. The result is printed in flexible resin using SLA printers like the Formlabs Form 3. This method reduces manufacturing time from weeks to hours, and the cost drops by 40% compared to the traditional method.
When the VAR is printed in TPU 🖨️
Imagine the referee reviews a controversial play and instead of looking at the screen, he prints a 3D doll of the striker in an offside position. While the coach argues, the plastic figure crumbles from the heat of the field. Anyway, for all the good VAR does, it's better to have a souvenir of the defeat. At least, the footballers can say they were sent off with a model more realistic than their last missed penalty.