Application of the Week: Camera bracket

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Ultimaker

September 2, 2025

Welcome back to our application spotlight series, where we explore real-world 3D printed solutions delivering faster, smarter, and more cost-effective manufacturing. Each week, we highlight how additive manufacturing can replace traditional methods - saving time, reducing costs, and improving performance.

This week, we’re spotlighting a custom 3D printed camera bracket for military vehicles - an essential component produced quickly and affordably with UltiMaker 3D printing technology.

Rapid solutions for mission-critical environments

In defense and security applications, reliable access to spare and replacement parts is vital. A broken or missing camera bracket may seem like a small issue, but without it, situational awareness and operational readiness can be compromised.

Traditionally, sourcing specialized parts like camera brackets involves long lead times, supply chain bottlenecks, or high costs for low-volume production. Additive manufacturing offers a smarter alternative: parts produced on demand, exactly where and when they’re needed.

Faced with the challenge of replacing a bracket, the engineering team turned to 3D printing to deliver a rapid, cost-effective solution.

Strength and precision with PET CF

Using an UltiMaker 3D printer and PET CF, a carbon fiber–reinforced filament, the team printed the camera bracket in a fraction of the time compared to traditional sourcing. PET CF provides outstanding stiffness, wear resistance, and dimensional stability - ensuring the bracket can withstand demanding military environments.

Key features and benefits


  • Faster turnaround: From weeks of supplier lead times to hours of in-house 3D printing.
  • Cost savings: Eliminates expensive small-batch production runs or procurement delays.
  • Durable material: PET CF delivers high stiffness and reliable performance under rugged conditions.
  • On-demand availability: Parts can be produced anytime, reducing dependence on external suppliers and unnecessary stock.

Smarter spare parts, ready when needed

This 3D printed camera bracket highlights how additive manufacturing can transform maintenance and repair in mission-critical defense applications. With UltiMaker’s reliable 3D printing technology and advanced materials like PET CF, teams can reduce downtime, cut costs, and keep vehicles operational.

Whether it’s a vital camera mount or a simple everyday spare, 3D printing empowers organizations to produce the parts they need—exactly when they need them.

Curious to see how your organization can benefit from 3D printing?Book a call with one of our applications engineers.

Learn all about 3D printing in the Defense Industry

Free white paper

3D printers are rapidly being deployed - from the factory floors of defense contractors to bases around the world - helping to fill critical defense logistics and maintenance gaps. Deep-dive into how 3D printing empowers military and defense operations.

Download the white paper