Dartmouth-based 3D printing company Novacad Systems and a German partner have launched a contest for post-secondary students to reinvent the humble chair and create new designs with 3D printing.

The BigRep Innovation Award is the work of Novacad Systems, which provides 3D printing solutions for its clients, and BigRep bH of Germany, which manufactures what it describes as the world’s largest 3D printers.

In a press release, the organizers said the contest emerged from their shared passion for innovation using large-format FDM (fused deposition modelling). With a prize value of $3,000, the award is open to all students now enrolled in a Canadian program for design, engineering, architecture or a related field.

“We hope the Innovation Award inspires a new generation of designers through access to the latest large-format 3D printers.” said Gregor Ash, Vice-President of Development at Novacad Systems.

Students are invited to submit designs for original 3D printed chairs or stools that can only be made on the BigRep One 3D printer, which has a print volume of over one cubic meter. The organizers encourage experimentation with form, geometry, shape, materials and colour.

“Manufacturing is changing rapidly, and 3D printing is a driving force in that,” said Amir Fattal, Director of Creative and Marketing at BigRep, and a competition jury member. “We’re passionate about fostering talent among individuals and companies to 3D print these creative and industrial solutions.”

The Grand Prize includes production of the winning design by BigRep’s team in Berlin, a $3,000 cash prize and return airfares so the winning designer can receive their finished design and award. Following an open online vote, the winner will be decided by an expert four-person jury.

You can find details and an entry form here.