HP Created Protective Headgear for the Pope’s Swiss Guards
Laura McQuarrie — February 28, 2019 — Art & Design
References: www8.hp & fastcompany
The possibilities of 3D-printed helmets have been explored by a number of different brands—mostly those producing bicycle products—and HP is setting itself apart by creating protective printed helmets for the Pope’s Swiss guards.
These new helmets mark the first time the design of the helmets has been changed in about 500 years and the update introduces some much-needed features for enhanced comfort and safety. The new 3D-printed helmets are not only lightweight, as they are crafted from PVC, but also more heat- and water-resistant.
For the creation of the new helmets, HP scanned a genuine helmet and created two versions: one that looks as though it's made of metal and can be sported during the day, and a second black and red option with feathers that will be reserved for special ceremonial occasions.
These new helmets mark the first time the design of the helmets has been changed in about 500 years and the update introduces some much-needed features for enhanced comfort and safety. The new 3D-printed helmets are not only lightweight, as they are crafted from PVC, but also more heat- and water-resistant.
For the creation of the new helmets, HP scanned a genuine helmet and created two versions: one that looks as though it's made of metal and can be sported during the day, and a second black and red option with feathers that will be reserved for special ceremonial occasions.
Trend Themes
1. 3d-printed Protective Gear - HP's creation of 3D-printed helmets for the Pope's Swiss guards demonstrates the potential for printed protective gear in various industries.
2. Innovation in Traditional Design - The update of the 500-year-old design of the Swiss guards' helmets highlights the opportunity for innovation in traditional design within industries and markets.
3. Functional Customization - The creation of two different versions of the 3D-printed helmets, one for everyday use and one for special ceremonial occasions, showcases the potential for functional customization in product design.
Industry Implications
1. Military and Law Enforcement - The use of 3D printing to create customized protective headgear has potential in the military and law enforcement industries.
2. Sports and Recreation - The lightweight and water-resistant properties of HP's 3D-printed helmets make them a disruptive innovation opportunity within the sports and recreation industries, particularly in cycling and snow sports.
3. Fashion and Costuming - The creation of two different versions of the 3D-printed Swiss guards' helmets demonstrates the potential for functional customization in fashion and costuming industries for events and performances.
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