German experts for outdoor equipment have taken a reasonable step in the "Leave No Trace" backpack, simplifying the backpack into a single material and 3D printed components. Novum 3D backpack is only a prototype, which lays the foundation for more environmentally friendly equipment categories and can be completely recycled after its service life.
In February 2022, the researchers introduced Novum 3D and said: "Ideally, products should completely return to the production process at the end of their life cycle. This is real recycling, but it is still a huge challenge for the textile industry at present. Many products consist of at least five to ten different materials or mixed fabrics, so they cannot be separated by type. "
Researchers have used welding seams in backpacks and bags produced, which is also a feature of Novum 3D's recyclability. The weld eliminates the thread and does not need to fix various components and material fragments together in order to maintain the integrity of a single material structure. Welds are also valuable because they eliminate pinholes and improve water resistance.
It would destroy the eco-friendly intention if an unqualified product is put on the shelf of a store, or it will soon finish its service life. Therefore, researchers strive to make Novum 3D a highly comfortable and practical backpack, and recyclable in the meantime. To this end, it cooperated with German plastics and additive manufacturing experts to replace the typical foam backboard with 3D printed TPU honeycomb panels. The honeycomb structure is chosen to obtain the best stability with the least material and weight, and to provide natural ventilation through the open design. Researchers use additive manufacturing to change the lattice structure and the hardness level of the whole different back plate areas, ensuring better pressure distribution and damping, so as to improve the overall comfort and outdoor performance.
Post time: Feb-20-2023