Kijenzi, a humanitarian start-up from宾夕法尼亚州立大学’sCollege of Engineering, is aiding remote healthcare facilities in Kenya with3D打印的医疗用品。
Kijenzi的最初愿景旨在使用其便携式定制3D打印机以低成本的价格迅速生产保健设备，例如支架，夹具和真空泵。雷电竞app下载尽管如此，随着该计划开始在肯尼亚社区工作，该团队得出结论，访问打印设备所需的CAD设计文件比硬件更有限。
Thus, the start-up shifted from supplying 3D printers to developing a cloud-based system, enabling access to 3D printable files for hospitals and medical professionals.Kijenzi的联合创始人，宾夕法尼亚州人道主义工程与社会企业家精神（HESE）计划的总监John K. Gershenson解释了：
“Our customers are health care facilities that don’t have access to the supply chains they need and over 40% don’t have the equipment needed to treat their patients. We bring the ability to locally manufacture what they need, when they need it. That is a game changer for access to treatment.”
有目的的3D打印
机械工程博士候选人Gershenson和Benjamin Savonen在宾夕法尼亚州立大学的各种企业家支持计划的帮助下，尤其是宾夕法尼亚州立大学，与他人共同创立了Kijenzi Venture赫斯program. This challenges students and faculty to create technology-based solutions that will positively affect those in lower income communities using sustainable business models.
Kijenzi was further developed through its participation in theBen Franklin技术中心的Techcelerator计划。Gershenson added, “The TechCelerator gave us the time and feedback we needed to craft the story of Kijenzi in such a way that everyone could understand what we are doing.”
Savonen identified the need for new lab equipment while teaching in Africa. This led the venture to rural areas of Kenya. 3D printing was recognized as an appropriate solution to manufacture hard-to-get items such as anatomical models, replacement parts, and occupational therapy devices – which contribute to the well-being of others.
可持续供应链
In many cases, supply chains can be limited in its reach as a result of broken and obsolete machinery, as well as logistical difficulties. Kijenzi has addressed these limitations with its cloud-based system which holds approximately 400 parts in its inventory.
The 3D printed equipment has been tested and used within collaborative educational institutes as well as medical facilities. Kijenzi is now preparing to launch an initial program in Kenya this May.
Similarly, last year,准备就绪, a non-profit organization based in Illinois, addressed the logistical challenges, medical, and social needs of the Sharia Camp in Iraq withnovel soap with 3D printed toys inside。
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Featured image shows 3D printed tweezers. Clip via Kijenzi/Penn State.
