The Community Foundation of West Tennessee donated $5,000 to Union University’s HUB for Innovation, Making, and Entrepreneurship. This gift was used to purchase a Form 4L Resin 3D Printer, enhancing the Department of Engineering’s work with local nonprofits.

“The Form 4L provides our students and outreach program participants with access to cutting edge industry & research level equipment, increasing their ability to produce more professional and user focused products,” said Dr. Georg Pingen, Director for the HUB and Professor of Engineering. “This access will open new opportunities to serve community members as students collaborate with the Therapy and Learning Center and to pursue innovative projects with local industry.”

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Through a partnership with the university’s engineering department, students have been collaborating with local organizations like the Therapy and Learning Center and the STAR Center to create custom assistive technology for individuals with disabilities in West Tennessee.

The new Form 4L printer addresses the limitations of the previous printers. This advanced equipment in the HUB will support the students with several key benefits:

• Engineering-Grade Resins: The new printer can use specialized resins, including engineering-grade and flexible materials, which are essential for creating ergonomic therapeutic devices.
• Faster Production Times: Students and faculty can produce assistive devices more quickly.
• Smoother Finishes: The printer can create parts with a superior surface finish, which is crucial for wearable items that require a comfortable fit.

“As a valued partner of the Therapy and Learning Center, Dr. Pingen and his students have significantly impacted the lives of our clients with special needs by harnessing the power of 3D printing technology,” said Ron Kwasigroh, Director of the Therapy and Learning Center. “With this new resource, the program has the potential to drive innovation and reach a broader audience.”

The Community Foundation learned about this program during its annual Community Impact Grant cycle in the spring. The review committee was inspired by the work of the HUB and allocated additional funds to aid in the purchase of the advanced piece of equipment.

“This donation is an investment in the future of our community,” said Dr. Frank McMeen, President of the Community Foundation. “Seeing Union University use technology to create custom solutions for people with disabilities reflects our mission. We believe this new printer will be a game-changer, helping students innovate faster and deliver better results for our friends and neighbors at the Therapy and Learning Center and the STAR Center."

For more information about the Community Foundation or its grant program, visit www.cfwtn.org/grants or contact Haley Fortune at haley@cfwtn.org.

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