30 Shops Wanted: Test a Prusa MK4S and Help Shape U.S. Drone Manufacturing
Thirty U.S. shops will get a new Prusa MK4S to run for three years at no cost. Here is what the program asks of you and how to apply.
If your business runs 3D printers, there might be a Prusa MK4S waiting for you. 30 selected sites will keep a machine in their facility and use it for 3 years at no cost. In return, each site prints 60 simple test parts for a pilot national manufacturing program. That's the trade.
Getting involved takes two steps. First, an 8-12 minute anonymous survey. Second, a short application for one of the 30 spots.
About the TICDAME Program
MatterHackers and MTDG (Manufacturing Technology Deployment Group), parent organization of America Makes, are teaming up to spur development of TICDAME (Trusted Intelligent Cybersecure Distributed Additive Manufacturing Ecosystem). This program aims to build a robust system of domestic modern manufacturing partners, and develop tools to ensure secure connections throughout the network. The goal is traceable, high-quality parts made in the U.S., and the first parts in line are for small UAVs.
Who Should Apply
The program is built for U.S. businesses that 3D print. That means print farms, 3D printing and additive manufacturing services, manufacturers that print in-house, and product design or engineering firms.
You don't need to make drone parts today to qualify. The program needs your real-world printing experience, whatever you make now.
The application is short. It asks what kind of business you run and how many 3D printers you operate. Have a shipping address ready for the printer in case you are selected.
Start With the Survey
The TICDAME survey takes about 8-12 minutes, and it is anonymous. It asks about your print capabilities and the operational and cybersecurity barriers you run into. This is a huge part of how you can shape the future of the project by letting MTDG know what you want to see in a national network, specifically for a business like yours.
Your answers will shape the framework of this project around their ideal partners, small and midsized shops, not just the large contractors. Survey takers can choose to enter a raffle for a YETI cooler!
Apply for the Testbed Program
MTDG is selecting 30 sites for a hardware testbed. Here is what the program involves.
- The task: print 60 simple test parts. Materials are provided at no cost.
- The perk: the Prusa MK4S stays in your shop for 3 years, and you use it at no cost. Your business is not liable for wear and tear.
- What to know: participation in the program provides an opportunity to shape the future of an exciting secure additive manufacturing network
After completing the TICDAME survey, fill out the program application to be considered for one of the 30 spots. Submitting an application doesn't guarantee selection.
