The BSD (Bobsleigh and Luge Association for Germany) equips its athletes with custom-made spike shoes from BMW. These are designed to enable faster start times by optimizing the transfer of muscle power to the bobsleigh sled.
The shoes are developed in cooperation with BMW. According to BSD, the automotive group is transferring expertise from lightweight construction and motorsport aerodynamics. With the help of 3D printing, individual spike profiles can be created for each athlete.
The one-piece metal spike soles are printed on BMW equipment. Special software enables automated design creation tailored to personal preferences. Compared to conventional stud profiles, the stiffness and geometry can be perfectly coordinated.
BSD and BMW have been working together on technology development since 2010. The aim is to transfer the advantages of individualized 3D printing to other areas such as rails or helmets.
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