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
Leslie's blog
Latest Economist story on 3D printing
If you've been wondering about the Maker movement in the 3D printing world, especially the what and why of it, here's an interesting article from the Economist. Some of the big "take aways" from this piece include: "The maker movement is worth … [Read more...] about Latest Economist story on 3D printing
Using 3D printing to create “Velcro”
Here is a fascinating story from an i.Materialise blog on a graduate student's use of 3D printing to create panels that adhere, connect, and interconnect is a manner similar to Velcro. … [Read more...] about Using 3D printing to create “Velcro”
Lights, Camera, 3D Print!
A Dimension 3D Printer from Stratasys Inc. plays a supporting role in this entertainment application. I have not seen the original animated short, “Back To The Start,” that has been viewed more than 2 million times on YouTube and is touted as one of … [Read more...] about Lights, Camera, 3D Print!
A closer look at injection molding
Periodically we will be showing you potential service providers and resources for your rapid prototyping and rapid manufacturing needs. Here's an interesting video from a Michigan company, PTI Engineered Plastics. PTI is a full-service thermoplastic … [Read more...] about A closer look at injection molding
Objet shows new 3D printing materials at EuroMold 2011
Materials are becoming a hot topic of news lately. Objet offers quite a range of materials for 3D printing, including their digital materials. Here is a good video of some of the materials the company showed at the recent EuroMold show: … [Read more...] about Objet shows new 3D printing materials at EuroMold 2011
3D printing—without supports
Many additive manufacturing processes (AM) and 3D printing designs require the use of support structures during part build. Either the geometry cannot stand on its, own or the material needs support during curing. But support structures frequently … [Read more...] about 3D printing—without supports
Is 3D Systems move a signal of 3D printing consolidation, already?
By now you know that two major players in the 3D printing market have shaken things up a bit. 3D Systems has added Z Corporation to its list of acquisitions, which now number 22 that the company has made in the past couple of years. Do I say “another … [Read more...] about Is 3D Systems move a signal of 3D printing consolidation, already?
For 3D Systems, the key was materials
3D Systems’ recent acquisition of Huntsman’s RenShape SLA materials helped increase the materials portfolio for the additive manufacturing company. The deal also included the purchase of the Araldite®Digitalis 3D additive fabrication machine. I … [Read more...] about For 3D Systems, the key was materials
Tips on selecting the right rapid prototyping machine
With more than 40 additive manufacturing systems to choose from, from 3D printers to sophisticated SLA/SLS, and FDM systems, how do you narrow that down to a reasonable number without reading every brochure on every system? The Make Parts Fast … [Read more...] about Tips on selecting the right rapid prototyping machine