Distynct Corp, a technology startup based in Ames, Iowa, is focused on bringing smarter solutions to agriculture through remote monitoring systems. As the company prepared for a new product launch, it turned to CIRAS for help building in-house 3D printing capabilities that would support faster prototyping, reduce production costs, and give greater control over the design process.
Through training and technical support at the CIRAS Digital Manufacturing Lab powered by Alliant Energy, Distynct gained the tools and knowledge needed to streamline development of its custom sensor housing. The project resulted in faster iteration, lower costs, and long-term growth potential.
Company Overview
Distynct‘s core mission is to simplify the first steps of the precision livestock farming journey and enable the future of precision livestock farming for livestock producers globally. Leading the way is their flagship product, the Distynct Barn Alarm, an innovative solution that enhances livestock management through real-time remote monitoring, actionable insights, and critical alerts.
Founded by Iowa State University alumni and based in Ames, the company is part of a growing wave of Iowa ag-tech innovators leveraging smart technology for practical impact.
Situation
Distynct’s team wanted to accelerate development of a polymer housing for a new bin sensor product but lacked the in-house 3D printing expertise needed to move beyond basic prototyping. While the company had used entry-level systems for early testing, the upcoming launch required greater precision, better material options, and improved reliability.
They also needed to evaluate whether 3D printing was viable for short-term production rather than just prototyping. This would allow for greater flexibility during the product’s initial ramp-up.
Solution
CIRAS guided the company through the CIRAS Connect process, beginning with an assessment of Distynct’s goals, existing resources, and production challenges. Based on this analysis, CIRAS designed a hands-on learning experience at the CIRAS Digital Manufacturing Lab powered by Alliant Energy that focused on upskilling the team and demonstrating advanced capabilities.
During the session, CIRAS project manager Jake Behrens provided:
- Technical background on 3D printing technologies and materials
- Best practices for integrating additive manufacturing into production
- Step-by-step training on Prusa MK4 setup, slicing software, maintenance, and troubleshooting
- Iterative refinement of printer settings to optimize quality for the company’s sensor housing
The company brought its own test parts to validate performance and left with a custom-tailored printing profile ready to implement.
Results
CIRAS delivered both immediate and long-term value by helping Distynct build internal capabilities and reduce reliance on outside vendors. The hands-on session accelerated product development and gave the team the confidence and clarity needed to pursue 3D printing as a strategic resource.
As a result of this project, Distynct expects:
- $340,000 in new sales from the product launch
- $43,000 in production cost savings
- $7,500 in new equipment investments
- Two intern jobs created
- Total projected economic impact: $396,300
“CIRAS played a pivotal role in transforming our concept into a fully realized production-ready component far more efficiently and cost-effectively than if we had outsourced the work,” said Craig Blass, Director of Engineering.
“By bringing these capabilities in-house, we’ve not only gained control over our production process but also dramatically improved our ability to iterate. Rapid prototyping enables us to validate designs, refine functionality, and accelerate time-to-market — all of which ultimately enhance the customer experience.”
Contact Jake Behrens to learn more.