This is how Signify is 3D printing thousands of lamps

Philips MyCreation by Signify has emerged as one of the most evident cases for the use of 3D printing in the lighting segment. The company is servicing large clients such as McDonald’s and SeaWorld with custom projects however its lamps are also available to consumers via the online customization platform.

By integrating advanced 3D printing technology with environmentally conscious practices, the company is redefining the way lighting solutions are created, manufactured, and distributed. This comprehensive exploration delves into the environmental, functional, and aesthetic advantages offered by Philips MyCreation, underscoring its significant impact on modern lighting.

In many ways, Philips MyCreation represents the future of lighting innovation. The company is committed to using its expertise in digital craftsmanship to enhance spaces while protecting the planet. By emphasizing sustainability, it addresses the pressing need for greener alternatives in an industry often criticized for excessive waste and environmental harm.

Lighting accounts for a substantial portion of global energy usage. Traditional manufacturing methods frequently result in unnecessary waste and emissions, further exacerbating environmental concerns. Philips MyCreation tackles these challenges by developing bespoke, energy-efficient lighting solutions that align with global sustainability goals.

3D printing in lighting for sustainability and innovation

Philips MyCreation uses 3D printing to revolutionize lighting design. This technology offers unparalleled flexibility, enabling the creation of intricate shapes, textures, and designs that would otherwise be challenging to achieve. Through layering materials, the company crafts customized luminaires tailored to specific needs.

The benefits of 3D printing in lighting include its ability to produce tailored designs, streamline production with fewer components, and significantly reduce waste. This innovative approach not only supports sustainability but also enhances efficiency in production timelines.

Sustainability is at the core of Philips MyCreation’s philosophy. Its lighting solutions are designed to minimize environmental impact by contributing to a circular economy, reducing carbon dioxide emissions, and eliminating waste. By focusing on responsible material usage and localized production, the company ensures that every aspect of its operations aligns with eco-conscious principles.

Philips MyCreation incorporates sustainability into its products by using materials that are either recycled or bio-circular. Each lighting fixture is made with at least 65% recycled or mass-balanced plastics, including materials such as recycled water jugs for collections like Water Blue. Bio-circular materials are ISCC Plus-certified, ensuring transparency and sustainability throughout the supply chain.

On-demand, localized production and customization

The company’s commitment to sustainability extends to its production model. By manufacturing products on demand, Philips MyCreation prevents overproduction and avoids the pitfalls of unsold inventory. Localized production further enhances efficiency by reducing transportation distances, thus significantly lowering emissions. This approach not only minimizes waste but also supports faster delivery and better resource management.

Philips MyCreation offers limitless customization possibilities, making it a standout in the lighting industry. Businesses across various sectors can create unique lighting solutions that complement their brand and space. From tailored designs for retail stores to bespoke underwater dining fixtures, the company showcases how 3D printing can meet diverse needs with precision and creativity.

Signify’s capabilities are best illustrated through its real-world projects. For instance, McDonald’s partnered with the company to design scalable, sustainable lighting solutions for its global locations. The collaboration resulted in customized luminaires that addressed specific design challenges while aligning with McDonald’s ambitious carbon footprint reduction goals.

Similarly, PLUS Retail sought a sustainable lighting solution for its supermarkets. Philips MyCreation provided lightweight, 3D printed pendants that mimicked the desired concrete aesthetic without the associated environmental impact. These luminaires were quick to manufacture, easy to install, and perfectly aligned with the supermarket chain’s sustainability ethos.

At SeaWorld Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, the company overcame a unique challenge. The café’s underwater dining area required lighting that minimized reflections on acrylic windows while respecting the marine life’s sensitivity to light. Using 3D technology, Philips MyCreation designed asymmetrical fixtures that met these specific needs, enhancing the immersive experience.

In Italy, Megalò Shopping Centre transitioned from fluorescent to LED technology with 1,400 3D printed downlights. The result was a 70% reduction in energy consumption, translating to significant annual cost savings. Projects at Madrid Barajas Airport and Rip Curl stores further demonstrate how Philips MyCreation’s sustainable solutions enhance functionality, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal across industries.

The Madrid Barajas Airport needed to reduce energy costs and find a lighting solution that is easy to install without having to change the ceiling to accommodate the new fittings. They were able to check both boxes with PerfectFit downlights.  With 3D printing technology and LED lighting, the airport is well on its way to achieving its energy savings goals. Compared to the previous lighting installation, savings of over 50% have been achieved. The project involved the installation of 194 3D printed downlights, with plans to expand to additional areas in the near future.

The circular future of lighting

For Philips MyCreation, Signify envisions a future where lighting is fully circular. By designing products that are easy to disassemble and recycle, the company ensures that materials can be reused to create new luminaires. This approach reflects a long-term commitment to sustainability and supports global efforts to reduce waste and emissions.

Recycling partnerships across Europe and North America play a vital role in closing the loop on materials. Products are designed without glue, paint, or excessive screws, simplifying disassembly. The company is also exploring ways to recycle printed materials from end-of-life products, creating a truly circular production cycle.

3D printing provides a range of technical benefits, including rapid prototyping and streamlined production processes. By reducing the number of components required, Signfy ensures that its products are not only easier to manufacture but also lighter and more cost-effective to install. These advancements make 3D printed lighting a practical and innovative choice for businesses.

With a presence in multiple countries, Philips MyCreation offers fast and reliable service for projects of all sizes. Its ability to deliver bespoke solutions quickly and efficiently has earned it a reputation as a leader in the global lighting industry. From Argentina to Australia, the company’s reach underscores its commitment to serving diverse industries while maintaining high sustainability standards.

Philips MyCreation by Signify demonstrates that there is really no reason why “3D printing cannot be used for serial production”. There is no reason why 3D printing cannot replace traditional manufacturing in a growing number of cases. The reason why some argue that it’s impossible is just a lack of vision, Signify could help shed some light on it.