Case Study: National Geographic achieves a smaller, lighter CritterCam with 3D Systems' SLS 3D printing

National Geographic Makes CritterCam Smaller and Lighter with 3D Printing

National Geographic’s Crittercam, invented by marine biologist and filmmaker Greg Marshall, needed a redesign to be smaller, lighter and more robust while incorporating upgraded audio and video technology. To achieve the tighter packaging and new mounting requirements, the team required a custom part—one that would brace and center the controller board and serve as the structural support for the camera—so they sought a solution that allowed full design freedom without long lead times or expensive tooling.

They used 3D Systems’ on‑demand SLS manufacturing, uploading files, getting a fast quote and receiving printed parts in days. The direct digital approach eliminated tooling costs, sped installation and iteration, and delivered cost‑effective, high‑quality parts that let National Geographic rapidly improve current Crittercams and prepare future versions.

National Geographic

Greg Marshall

Marine Biologist and Filmmaker