YouTube continues to be a source of inspiration as it relates to mass customization videos. Five really interesting videos about 3D printers recently crossed my radar.
MakerBot – SchmakerBot
I love the MakerBot project and the Thingiverse product library, but this prototype of a sub $500 3D printer is a a vision of the future. Using an HP printer, some hobby shop materials, and ingenuity, this hacker was able to make a ZCorp style 3D printer in his home. Machines like the MakerBot require fairly specialized print heads that can heat and distribute thin filaments of plastic. ZCorp printers use the same print heads that are in HP printers. These are far more reliable and could make for more efficient and cost effective 3D printing.
Large Scale 3D Print of Human Head
ZCorp models look great. They can make convincing World of Warcraft statues that are four inches tall, but this life size human head is stunning and ridiculously accurate.
3D Printing Buys Peace of Mind
Automated industrial machinery is a tremendous expense costing millions of dollars. Before committing to expensive tooling this company was able test out their package filling machinery using 3D printers. You wouldn’t use these models in production, but it can certainly make signing the check to order the tools less stressful.
Shapeways Brings the Heavy Metal
Shapeways has recently started offering 3D printing in metal, opens up a bunch of possibilities, and looks really cool.
ZCorp 3D Printing Overview
Nothing new in regards to technology, but it is a nice step by step video of the ZCorp 3D printing and finishing processes.
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