The initial question from the early developers of rapid prototyping (RP) technology (now known as 3D printing) was, “Is there a better way to prototype?” The answer became stereolithography, fused deposition modeling, and other technologies now … [Read more...] about 3D printing—an industry in flux
Leslie's blog
First a jaw–medical applications of 3D printing
The news of a 3D printer-created lower jaw made of titanium powder has been populating the twitter-verse. While this is probably a first time attempt to actually implant something like this in a human body, 3D printer companies like EOS and others … [Read more...] about First a jaw–medical applications of 3D printing
Rent CAD Software?
In addition to renting a 3D printer system, would you also consider renting CAD software? Recently, Ashlar-Vellum offered their line of CAD programs under a number of licenses, including permanent, one-year, and monthly rental. Though Ashlar’s … [Read more...] about Rent CAD Software?
Have we reached an agreement on what to call this industry?
Did you miss it? Todd Grimm, long time follower and analyst of the Additive Manufacturing/3D printing industry recently declared that the term 3D printing, by popular usage, is the official name of this industry. Two years ago, ASTM attempted to … [Read more...] about Have we reached an agreement on what to call this industry?
A simple scanning tool for personal 3D printers
In the personal 3D printer field, one concern is whether the average user not trained in CAD will get any benefit from these devices sufficient to sustain the growth of this nascent industry. If you’ve never designed anything in your life, how do … [Read more...] about A simple scanning tool for personal 3D printers
Can open source 3D printing be more than a hobby?
Back in the 1960s, when Gene Roddenberry was developing his ideas for the Star Trek series, one of his thoughts was that we would live in a society without money. His vision was that we would be more focused on self-actualization, which would drive … [Read more...] about Can open source 3D printing be more than a hobby?
The 3D printer home market takes shape
It looks like the big players in the additive manufacturing market are taking the potential of the 3D printing home market seriously with the introduction of a new 3D printer from 3D Systems specifically geared to the home market, and rumors of a … [Read more...] about The 3D printer home market takes shape
3D printing’s stellar, amazing year
What a year 3D printing technology had in 2011! This approximately 25 year-old industry is enjoying a second round of “good buzz” thanks in large part to what have been labeled personal sized, hobby, or Maker units and the media fascination … [Read more...] about 3D printing’s stellar, amazing year
And the winner is…
For the past several years, Make Parts Fast parent magazine, Design World, has held a Leadership In Engineering competition among various companies in various industries. Winners are chosen by you, our audience. The guidelines for your choice are … [Read more...] about And the winner is…
3D printing used to “print” blood vessels
One of the more interesting aspects of 3D printing technology is how science is using it to spark a number of potential developments, for example, its use in medical application. Some scientists have “printed” non-functioning organs out of … [Read more...] about 3D printing used to “print” blood vessels
