Home improvement is getting more personal: Lowe’s Innovation Labs, the innovation hub of Lowe’s Companies, Inc., has developed a 3D printing and scanning services online and in-store. With the new the service, homeowners are able to design and produce replacement parts and unique décor items.
The Orchard Supply Hardware store in Mountain View, Calif., is providing the service in its store and online through Osh.com. There are no reports of if, and when, the service will expand to Lowe’s stores.
Consumers can customize the color, shape and material of products, including light switch plates, address plates, door handles and cabinet knobs. Users also can scan items in their own home, such as antique accents, to create 3D models for printing. The cost of the product varies based on its overall complexity.
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Items can be printed in-store in plastic, or ordered in materials such as metal or ceramic. After orders are finalized they are delivered directly to the customer. A dedicated 3D print and design specialist is available in the Orchard Supply Hardware store to assist customers throughout the process and facilitate the pickup of printed items.
“The home is very personal and 3D printing gives homeowners unprecedented access to build items that reflect their individuality,” said Kyle Nel, Executive Director of Lowe’s Innovation Labs. “Until now, it’s been hard for the average consumer to benefit from this technology because of the cost and complexity, so we are bringing customers an approachable and affordable customization experience.”
Lowe’s Innovation Labs develop the project in partnership with Authentise, which provides secure distribution tools for 3D printing and helps companies execute 3D innovation through via Authentise Services. By partnering with Authentise, Lowe’s Innovation Labs was able to “rapidly develop 3D solutions in a way that is core to home improvement,” Nel said.
The partnership was formed through SU Labs, which helps connect corporate innovation teams with startups and other organizations to create new sustainable business solutions.
See the experience first-hand by watching this video:
