Open source modeling tool written in Haskell, or, “Clobbering programming problems with gigantic mathematical hammers”
ImplicitCAD is a new, open source, programmatic modeling tool that is similar to projects like OpenSCAD and OpenJsCAD. The author, Christopher Olah, first told me about it at a party last year and now it’s ready for people to start using it!
I asked Chris some questions about his efforts: (more…)
The first operation of its kind.
An 83-year-old’s lower jaw was completely replaced with a 3D printed titanium substitute due to a chronic bone infection. The operation occurred in June, but has only recently been publicized.
The doctors chose this approach because they believed traditional reconstructive surgery was too risky considering her age. The operation to attach the new jawbone took only four hours, one-fifth the time of the traditional method. The time savings is due to the fact that the 3D printed jaw fit the patient perfectly. The woman went home after four days.
(more…)
Another 3D printing technology goes open source.
Open source and low cost plastic extrusion 3D printers have become so common they don’t even seem exciting anymore. There are even low cost UV resin printers and powder/adhesive printers around if you look. But laser sintering has remained the domain of high-end commercial printers.
This project Swarthmore College engineering student Andreas Bastian is an important step towards making laser sintering machines accessible. It uses a relatively low-powered laser to fuse a wax powder. These models can then be made into metal via traditional lost-wax casting. It’s not quite a direct-to-metal laser sinter printer, but its a step closer.
(more…)
Arkitypo: a 3D printed typographic exhibition
Arkitypo is an exploration of typographic history. From A to Z, each letter features a 3D printed letter specimen of a unique typeface that portrays a particular trait. The exhibition was created by London based design studio Johnson Banks in collaboration with Ravensbourne University. Video and more photos after the jump…
3D printing across the USA.
Bilal Ghalib and Alex Hornstein are currently driving across the country in a Prius with two 3D printers in their trunk for a project they call “Pocket Factory.” They are printing products to sell in various cities along the way as an experiment to try starting a business based on accessible 3D printing technology.
You can see their route on the map below or read about it on the Pocket Factory site.
Via psfk
Easy model viewing on the go
If you do any 3D printing work, you’re probably familiar with MeshLab. It’s a great tool for fixing models, skinning point clouds, and all sorts of interesting stuff. But did you know that there’s been a version of MeshLab for iOS since September?
It doesn’t have the editing capabilities of the desktop software, but it’s a great tool for viewing and presenting 3D models on the go.
You can import files using iTunes or email, but the best way is to use the Dropbox integration feature: (more…)
2012 may be the year of 3D printing: Lisa Harouni on TED
We may be preaching to the converted, but for those who still aren’t convinced (or maybe even aren’t aware) of just how exciting 3D printing is, this recent TED talk gives a neat overview.
The speaker is Lisa Harouni, CEO of Digital Forming. Having specialised for a number of years pioneering software development for 3D printing applications, she is well placed to convince even the most sceptical of viewers that we are indeed on the cusp of a manufacturing revolution.
via TED
3D printing art & design exhibition in London!
The Send to Print / Print to Send exhibition has been running at the Aram Gallery on Drury Lane in London since January 13. It is exhibiting a range of avant garde 3D print designs. The exhibition includes works from the fields of architecture, industrial design, fashion, and product design.
Serie, Façade Model
The Aram Gallery uses this exhibition as a way to examine how designers’ processes are developing to accommodate new technological advances. We offer our visitors an idea of what 3D Printing is, and how it is being contemporaneously used. This exhibition is not intended as an exhaustive overview, but a cross-disciplinary pick and mix of examples.
Best of the Blog 2011 – Interviews, Thoughts & Opinions
Here’s five of my favourite interviews from 2011: we’re talking printed organs, education, DIY, hobby printing, and the future of connectivity. Kick back and tune in!
PopTech talks to Dr. Gabor Forgac, founder of Organovo, a company that sells “the world’s only commercial bioprinter proven to create tissue.” (more…)
Best of the Blog 2011: Art
Take a moment to step back and see the world a little differently with this selection of ten memorable works of art that appeared on the Ponoko blog during 2011.
From unique perspectives on everyday objects to different ways of capturing and expressing movement, join us to explore how artists continue to use digital manufacturing technologies in new and exciting ways.
The mesmerising motion of professional dancers and martial artists is captured in this intriguing project by Mathew Schwartz. Data from the sinuous movements is 3D printed before being cast in bronze, giving a unique perspective on human movement that would surely have Muybridge’s nod of approval.
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