Rapid Shape Opens North American Headquarters

Rapid Shape, a German manufacturer of modern, technologically advanced 3D printers, has opened its North American headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina. The company is headquartered in Heimsheim, Germany, near Stuttgart.

“With the opening of Rapid Shape Inc. in the USA, we are creating the best conditions to continue Rapid Shape’s growth in the North American market,” says Andreas Schultheiss, Rapid Shape founder and CEO. “We place great value on personal consultation, fast and excellent service, and short delivery routes. With our local sales, logistics and support activities, we can now better serve the U.S. and Canadian markets.”

Rapid Shape was founded in 2011 and has been active in the dental, jewelry, hearing aid and industrial markets. The company says it benefits from the experience and cooperation of numerous partners such as Straumann U.S., Würth Additive Group, Opulent, Henkel, Keystone and other U.S. and Canadian partners.

The company chose the Centennial Campus of North Carolina State University in Raleigh for its North American headquarters due to its proximity to student and faculty talent, which includes research and development. In Raleigh, Rapid Shape is working with NC State’s Center for Additive Manufacturing and Logistics (CAMAL) and its director, Ola Harrysson, to drive innovation in the 3D printing industry.

“NC State provides access to top talent within walking distance of our new office,” Schultheiss says. “The resources and infrastructure available in CAMAL will support Rapid Shape’s growth in the North American market.”

Rapid Shape has provided equipment for university education and training. Interdisciplinary teams are gaining hands-on experience using the 3D printers and materials in numerous projects. The company is currently working with the College of Engineering to develop an internship program for more graduates. Students will have the opportunity to gain early insight into advanced technologies and future product design.

All of Rapid Shape’s equipment needed for AM is digitally networked, equipped with advanced software and aligned with validated workflows. The open material system enables the use of over 300 resins, and more are being added all the time.