Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Vaughn Custom Sports Canada (Vaughn) would like to prototype a process to scan feet three dimensionally (3D) to improve their foot measurement and custom hockey skate production process. The Mohawk College Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) has the 3D design and scanning, additive manufacturing (AM)/3D printing software and system expertise to investigate the full process from measurement to footreplica (last) production. Mohawk College and Vaughn will compare traditional measurements and lasts with 3D scanned files and 3D printed feet respectively. 3D scanning and printing has the potential to replicate foot nuances, such as a pronounced heel, which is difficult to capture with traditional measurements. 3D technologycan save time and help to create a better product and skating experience. According to the International IceHockey Federation, as of the 2018-2019 season, there were more than 1.7 million ice hockey playersworldwide, which is a market Vaughn will work to gain greater share. Vaughn has customers in the National Hockey League (NHL) and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), which demonstrates the quality of its skates. GRAF skates are used by hockey players for years, and in some cases for decades, whichhighlights the quality, and the importance of producing a great skate fit for long-term comfort and performance with 3D technology.