[3D Printing] Repairing Philips Products with Prusa 3D Printing!
Health-tech giant Philips has launched a new initiative allowing consumers to 3D print replacement parts for select personal care products. The pilot program is currently underway in the Czech Republic.
The project, dubbed "Philips Fixables," was developed by Philips in collaboration with 3D printer manufacturer Prusa Research and creative agencies LePub Amsterdam and LePub Milan. While starting locally, the downloadable design files will be shared on the Printables platform, making them accessible to users worldwide.
Repairing Grooming Devices with 3D Printing
"Philips Fixables" responds to the growing desire for repair, with 77% of consumers stating they would rather repair products than replace them.
The goal is not for consumers to print entire devices or complex internal components, but to make it easier to replace small accessories that are often difficult to obtain or not worth the shipping costs.
For instance, if an adjustable comb for a OneBlade shaver breaks or gets lost, users can now print a new one at home.
Through these accessible repair methods, Philips hopes to prevent perfectly functional products from being discarded.
To ensure reliability, the company collaborated with 3D printer manufacturer Prusa to ensure the designs meet their quality and safety standards.
Regarding the OneBlade shaver combs, Philips recommends using standard PLA material and following the parameters in the print files, as altering printing methods or settings to save time or material can reduce the part's durability.
Although only one type of part is currently available, Philips says more parts—including shaver accessories, electric toothbrush components, and dryer parts—are expected to arrive soon.
Consumers who want to request specific parts can fill out a submission form to make suggestions.
While "Philips Fixables" is still in the early stages of development, its success may depend on how far Philips can expand the range of parts and whether it becomes a practical method for repair.
3D Printing Contest for Philips Grooming Devices
"Philips Fixables" has also launched its first 3D printing contest.
The grand prize winner will receive an original Prusa MK4S kit and three Philips products; second prize includes 1200 Prusameters and two Philips products, while third prize includes 800 Prusameters and one Philips product.
The goal of the contest is to submit storage cases or stands compatible with any Philips grooming device to make carrying, organizing, and storing them easier.
However, the intended use of the model must be clearly demonstrated. Additionally, for safety and technical reasons, creators cannot "modify or manufacture parts that attach to or alter the functionality of Philips products."
The deadline for the contest is June 27.
Choosing Repair Over Replacement
Even before expanding into the personal care sector, the culture of repair has had an ongoing impact on the broader manufacturing industry through various initiatives bolstered by EU "Right to Repair" legislation.
Last year, the EU-funded CREDIT project launched with 5.6 million euros in support, aiming to develop European remanufacturing and circular supply chains.
Led by engineering firm Idener and supported by "Horizon Europe," this project is developing a digital platform that combines AI decision-making tools, digital twins, predictive maintenance, and traceability systems.
CREDIT targets industries such as automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics, addressing "Right to Repair" legislation.
Supported by partners like Crowdhelix, it also includes training programs and five use cases to demonstrate the potential for reducing waste and increasing manufacturing efficiency.
The collaboration between Miele and Replique also emphasizes decentralized and sustainable production, providing 3D printed accessories through a decentralized manufacturing network.
Initiated alongside the implementation of "Right to Repair" laws, these efforts provide customers with ways to replace parts without relying on centralized inventory or long shipping times, further encouraging a shift toward a "repair-first" mindset.
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