The integration of additive manufacturing in product development has become increasingly significant, particularly in established sectors like the bicycle industry. Berria Bike and Mausa 3D are at the forefront of this trend, showcasing their groundbreaking 3D-printed e-bike prototype, the ‘Mistral’.
This innovative model, designed for both road and gravel use, emphasizes lightweight construction and performance adaptability over various terrains. The collaboration aimed to translate the initial design into a functional prototype, allowing for the critical testing of the bike’s geometry, component integration, and ergonomics before transitioning to large-scale production.
Utilizing the Multi Jet Fusion process, the Mausa 3D team created a functional prototype in a rapid timeframe of just 3 to 4 days. This efficient approach provided Berria Bike’s engineers with the ability to test and refine the bike’s design without the need for expensive molds or protracted production schedules. Made from PA12, the prototype’s design achieved precision within 0.1 mm, facilitating quick assembly and design optimization without the constraints typically imposed on traditional manufacturing.
Mausa 3D managed the entire process from model preparation for printing to in-house manufacturing and final assembly. The resultant prototype was fully functional and met the intended engineering tolerances. The final product, crafted from HM2X carbon fiber, includes the ICS2 internal cable routing system. The Mistral e-bike is now available for purchase, with prices ranging from €4,500 to €8,000.
For more information on similar advancements in the automotive and transportation sector, visit automotive and transport 3D printing.