The digitization of ancient artifacts and the fabrication of sustainable 3D-printed replicas present a promising solution for enhancing the accessibility to cultural heritage sites for visitors with disabilities. This article focuses on the case study of the Piraeus Archaeological Museum. The study investigates the process of digitizing a selection of ancient artifacts from the museum’s collection and utilizing 3D printing technology to produce tactile replicas from recycled Polylactic Acid (PLA) material that provide a multisensory experience for individuals with disabilities like vision impairment. The research examines the technical challenges and considerations faced by the authors’ team during the 3D scanning process of the artifacts, the manufacturing of raw material from 3D printing waste, as well as the optimization of 3D printing parameters to ensure the creation of high-quality 3D-printed replicas. Furthermore, the article points out the positive future impact that the 3D-printed replicas will have on the engagement and comprehension of vision-impaired visitors, highlighting the potential of this approach in promoting inclusivity and fostering a connection with cultural heritage.

3D scanning, 3D printing, and CAD design software are considered important tools in Industry 4.0 product development processes. Each one of them has seen widespread use in a variety of scientific and commercial fields. This work aims to depict the added value of their combined use in a proposed workflow where a customized product needs to be developed. More specifically, the geometry of an existing physical item’s geometry needs to be defined in order to fabricate and seamlessly integrate an additional component. In this instance, a 3D scanning technique was used to digitize an e-bike’s frame geometry. This was essential for creating a peripheral component (in this case, a rear rack) that would be integrated into the frame of the bicycle. In lieu of just developing a tail rack from scratch, a CAD generative design process was chosen in order to produce a design that favored both light weight and optimal mechanical behaviors. FDM 3D printing was utilized to build the final design using ABS-CF10 materials, which, although being a thermoplastic ABS-based material, was introduced as a metal replacement for lighter and more ergonomic component production. Consequently, the component was manufactured in this manner and successfully mounted onto the frame of the e-bike. The proposed process is not limited to the manufacturing of this component, but may be used in the future for the fabrication of additional peripheral components and tooling.