On December 23, 2024, the Qubit Bot robotics team had the incredible opportunity to visit the TyRex Group’s manufacturing facility in Austin, Texas. This visit, organized by Coach Vik, brought the team face-to-face with Joel M. Coffman, Vice President of Marketing at TyRex Group, a renowned leader in advanced manufacturing and 3D printing technologies. The event proved to be an inspiring blend of technological insight, practical learning, and community-driven innovation.
Introducing TyRex Group: A Company Built to Last
TyRex Group stands out in the industry not only for its exceptional manufacturing capabilities but also for its dedication to innovation and community impact. Comprised of multiple subsidiaries like Arctos and Megladon, TyRex specializes in creating custom solutions for its clients rather than mass-producing its own products. Their advanced 3D printing techniques, including FDM, SLA, and SLS, cater to diverse applications such as fashion, dental products, aerospace, and even community-driven initiatives. The company’s ethos is reflected in its Diamond Disciplines, emphasizing quality, reliability, and meaningful partnerships.
A Tour Through Technology
During the visit, Mr. Coffman guided the Qubit Bot team through the TyRex facility, showcasing a variety of cutting-edge 3D printing technologies. From traditional FDM printers to high-end SLA and SLS machines, the team gained hands-on insights into the capabilities of different printing methods. For instance, SLA printers use resin cured by blue light to produce intricate and highly detailed parts, while SLS printers use powdered materials and lasers to create robust, durable components. The TyRex team also shared their expertise on selecting appropriate materials, such as the flexible and strong nylon, which could be particularly useful for building resilient robot components like gears and brackets.
The tour also unveiled some unique and unexpected uses of 3D printing. The team marveled at printers that could craft ceramic pottery and even machines capable of printing with food—creating chocolate sculptures and cookie dough designs. These diverse applications highlighted the boundless potential of 3D printing and sparked the team’s imagination for their own projects.
Inspiring Community Impact
One of the most memorable moments of the visit was learning about TyRex’s community initiatives. The company’s commitment to leveraging technology for social good was exemplified by their project for a child with CLOVES syndrome. TyRex used their 3D printing capabilities to create custom shoes tailored to the child’s unique needs and even taught the child’s father how to replicate the process. This heartwarming story underscored the transformative power of technology and inspired the team to think beyond competition, considering the broader impact of their work.
Lessons in Innovation and Collaboration
The visit to TyRex provided the Qubit Bot team with several key takeaways:
The Power of Advanced Manufacturing
The team learned how different 3D printing technologies and materials could be applied to improve their robots, from rapid prototyping with FDM printers to creating durable parts with SLS technology.
Design and Testing Expertise
TyRex’s emphasis on thoughtful design and iterative testing mirrored the team’s own engineering practices, reinforcing the importance of refining ideas to achieve optimal results.
Collaboration and Resource Sharing
The tour highlighted the value of partnerships. TyRex’s willingness to assist with printing parts for the team’s robot exemplified how collaboration can amplify capabilities and innovation.
Creativity and Innovation
TyRex’s intern program, which encourages participants to design unique projects, inspired the team to embrace creativity and think outside the box in their own endeavors.
Community and Sustainability
The company’s dedication to community service and its dinosaur-themed reminders to “evolve or become extinct” emphasized the importance of continuous growth and giving back.
Looking Ahead to the FTC Season
The Qubit Bot team left TyRex’s facility energized and equipped with new ideas for the upcoming FIRST FTC season. The knowledge gained about advanced 3D printing technologies and collaborative problem-solving will be instrumental in refining their robot designs and enhancing team efficiency. By integrating these insights, the team aims to push the boundaries of their capabilities while remaining committed to innovation and community impact.
The visit to TyRex not only broadened the team’s technical understanding but also reinforced their belief in the transformative power of technology when combined with creativity, collaboration, and a commitment to making a difference. As the Qubit Bot team gears up for the season ahead, they carry with them the invaluable lessons and inspiration gained from this remarkable outreach experience.
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