Hello! This is blog post #1 and a recap of what I learned, found interesting, and further researched on 3D printing.
First off, “3D printing” is a current buzzword that seems to be making the biggest headlines in innovative technologies. But, to my surprise, 3D printing is not a new concept! From the article, “How to Make Almost Anything” by Neil Gershenfeld, he discusses how 3D printing was first introduced in the 1980’s. After reading the article, I was inspired at what 3D printing could accomplish but he also presented a dark outlook on 3D printing that isn’t always at the forefront of peoples minds. This technology has already resulted in weapons being printed, the development of counterfeit money, and potentially in “gray goo” – self reproducing machines that multiply out of control and consume all of the earths resources! I don’t know how realistic gray goo is, but one thing I comprehended from this reading is that laws and regulation of 3D printing are a must.
Aside from that, the other reading, ” The Maker Mindset”, and the guest speaker/alum interested me into the wonders of 3D printing. They presented numerous possibilities of what 3D printing has to offer and how this technology can develop a wide range of items! Thus, the foundation of what 3D printing was set, and that bar was very high. Our class then broke down into small groups and we started thinking of items to create. I had plenty of ideas, but the problem was that they were already created. So, I went to find inspiration on 3D printing platforms and I found 4 items that I would like to make during the class sessions. Those include:
- Webcam Privacy Screen
https://www.shapeways.com/product/8V5DCZ3GZ/webcam-privacy-screen?optionId=3405835&li=marketplace
In a time were infringement of privacy seems oh so popular, I would love to create a webcam privacy screen. Many students, including myself, use stickers or cut up sticky notes to cover their webcams. This object would be very useful to have but I would make a sliding screen to open and close the cam.
2. Cube Nails
https://www.shapeways.com/product/TCF7N3VQH/cube-nails-size-0?optionId=17107908&li=marketplace
I was excited to see 3D printed nail art being developed because the classic gel nails are so damaging as well as expensive. This is a flexible polish with richly colored nylon plastic with a smooth finish. Comes in multiple colors! I would like to make different designs that are more flat and add images if possible.
3. Robbie and Bird
https://www.shapeways.com/product/XP82VDBGP/robbie-and-bird?optionId=42049009&li=marketplace
I would like to make something fun like a creative vase! In addition, this vase has nice detail that I would like to see a 3D printer construct.
4. The Little Meteor
https://www.shapeways.com/product/UD6ULCFWV/the-little-meteor?optionId=56493089
I would like to create a pendant that is polished brass plated with 14k Rose Gold! Many people are hesitant to get things 3D printed because they fear that the quality will lessen. I want to see if that is true by printing this item.