Additive Manufacturing is rapidly developing as a cost-effective alternative to conventional manufacturing techniques for various applications requiring; components with complex geometries, introduction of sacrificial components, assemblies comprising many parts or low volume and bespoke design orders.

Cost savings can be appreciated through reduction in raw material, reduced manufacture times and removing the need for expensive tooling. Recent pandemic and Brexit highlighted supply chain instability. Delivery of replacement parts is critical for manufacturers. Downtime caused by non-productive period draws businesses and causes loss of customers. A requirement of finding solution for improved product transportation at CooperVision Manufacturing LTD, pushed for redesigning grippers used within traverse mechanism system. Redesigning would improve gripper geometry, increase grip area to subjected part and stabilize vertical and horizontal gripper position. The Additive Manufacturing Technology allows making this component from composite, making component cheaper, lighter, stronger, stiffer, and available quicker when compared to current stainless-steel components.