On a mission to enhance performance and comfort of horsemen, equestrian technology company Ergon Equine Ltd has developed NewTree, an injection molded tree design offering a range of customizable features from gullet to cantle.
NewTree is one among the range of solutions the UK-based company is developing. Another product in development is BioTree, a dynamic, equine-centric alternative to traditional saddle tree designs.
What raised our interest in Ergon Equine’s work is its integration of 3D printed ball joint housings with stainless steel ball studs, developed by 3D printing service provider igus UK.
3D printed ball joint housings enable a dynamic movement in Ergon Equine’s tree design and a more comfortable riding experience for both horse and rider.
Why this change?
Igus explained that traditional saddle tree designs often combine laminated wood with reinforcing metal plates. This construction dictates the shape and load-bearing points on a saddle. A perfect fit is therefore essential to ensure the horse is comfortable and capable of delivering the best performance. Using unforgiving, static materials such as wood and metal restricts the possibility of dynamic movement, hence the choice of injection molded tree offerings by Ergon.
According to igus, the six 3D printed ball joint mechanisms with stainless steel ball studs could withstand different loads, temperatures and intensities all while facilitating dynamic movement between the horse and saddle.
Igus 3D printed the housing using iglidur® i230, its selective laser sintering (SLS) material. The company reports that it is 80% more wear-resistant than its PA12 alternative.
Source: igus — Ergon Equine.
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