Our own innovation powerhouse, Maker North, continues to make international headlines in solving problems levying the cutting edge technology at their disposal.

Jack, an 8 year-old mixed-breed dog, lost his front right leg when he was hit by a car when he was almost one.  Since then, he has made his life happy by acclimatizing to a three-legged approach to all things canine.  However, as age has begun to show its presence, his owners recently noticed that he was falling and tripping, more so than usual.

As loving as they are, they wanted to improve his quality of life and through their research ended up contacting the Hanger Clinic, a leader in the creation of prosthetics, although predominantly prosthetics for humans.  While they were able to create and complete the upper portion of the leg, including the fitting to attach to Jack’s body, they were unable to replicate in a sufficient way the “paw” portion of the limb.

Enter the Canadian contribution – Maker North Inc.  Widely known for their expertise in 3D printing and laser cutting, among a myriad of other tools and educational collaborations, their team was contacted by a Canadian residing on the US side of the border to see if this was something that they could help with.

Joseph Bertrand, Founder/Director, was swift in his response.

“Could we help? Absolutely.” he told this reporter with his affable grin.

Although the typical source material for their 3D printing endeavours is PLA (Poly Lactic Acid), a versatile and environmentally friendly product, this project required something that would react differently to the pressure that it would face in supporting efficient mobilization of a happy dog.  They turned to TPU (Thermal Plastic Polyurethane).  This material would allow for the rebound effect required to simulate the dog’s gate and activities.

“TPU was selected because it would allow for the roll-forward motion, and then would compress and expand.” said Bertrand.

Maker North has been manufacturing basic prosthetics for human usage for several years now.  When asked if he could see this new application of their technology expand their work in the creation of their prosthetics, he was affirmative.

“Absolutely.  The prosthetics we have been manufacturing up until now have been very basic.  This definitely opens new doors.” he said.

This collaboration, previously recounted in a UP publication has already garnered much attention.  Attention that is putting a spotlight on our own Maker, locally.

It has been reported that, despite the obvious learning curve, Jack is getting accustomed to his new leg.  Some stops and starts, but, according to his owners, all it takes is a squirrel and he is off and running.

“The story was published about 20 hours ago, and we have received 7 inquiries already by various pet owners.” Bertrand shared.

Always a mover, shaker, and an innovator, the two-man team at Maker North Inc. of Joseph Bertrand and Riley Drover, remain the ultimate “can do” duo.  If you have a problem that needs solving, look no further.

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