Welcome to our collection of this week’s most interesting 3D printing highlights. We initiate this week’s installment with a video from BlackMilk Studio, presenting director Ruairi Robinson clarifying the use of 3D printing to form the spacesuit showcased in the renowned “A Thousand Suns” series. Then, Executive TV converses with manufacturing experts within the UK additive manufacturing field. Next, Associated Press reports how the University of Maine is utilizing 3D printing, through the world’s largest 3D printer, for resolving the state’s housing quandary. Onwards, the presenter of Slant 3D expresses how he was at first a big critic of 3D printing, but its undeniable advantages quickly made him one of its leading promoters, ultimately leading to one of the world’s largest 3D printing farms. Lastly, Chris Borge, a 3D printing lover from Australia, displays how 3D printing can serve to restore and enhance old items. Let’s explore!
Top 1: 3D Printing a Spacesuit for “A Thousand Suns”
To begin with, “A Thousand Suns” director Ruairi Robinson sheds light on the application of 3D printing technology to construct the spacesuit featured in the miniseries. Collaborating with costume designer Aiden Vitty and concept artist Andrew Lee, Robinson portrays the meticulous process of designing and fabricating the elaborate hard surface sections of the spacesuit, custom-made to fit the actor’s dimensions through 3D scanning. Even though being a novice in 3D printing, Robinson describes how he effectively printed and painted the props, surmounting obstacles through trial and error, culminating in a complex, ultra-realistic spacesuit.
Top 2: Additive Manufacturing and the Future of UK Industry
Next, Executive TV interviews manufacturing experts as they delve into the strategic trajectory of the UK industry, focusing particularly on the potential of additive manufacturing within the country. They highlight the increasing interest in local, on-demand production, evident in supply chain disruptions like those experienced during the pandemic. Acknowledging the growing emphasis on sustainability within manufacturing, they discuss 3D printing’s reduced carbon footprint and speak of its potential environmental benefits. They conclude with a discussion on the importance of a skilled workforce to drive innovation and competitiveness in the country’s AM sector.
Top 3: World’s Largest 3D Printer to Build Homes in Maine
Third in line, Associated Press covers how the University of Maine has turned to 3D printing to tackle the housing crisis within the state. Led by Director Habib Dagher, the university’s Advanced Structures & Composite Center is leveraging the world’s largest 3D printer, combining robotics, sensors, high-performance computing, and AI to push the boundaries of what’s possible in housing and construction.
Top 4: From Skeptic to Advocate
Next up, the host at Slant 3D describes his journey as an initial skeptic of 3D printing, eventually turning into one of its biggest advocates and enthusiasts, later resulting in the creation of one of the largest 3D print farms in the world. Initially dismissing 3D printing as impractical and inefficient, the speaker’s perspective shifted when faced with the realization that 3D printing held a fundamental truth: it should be and will be the superior manufacturing process.
Top 5: Fixing Vintage Products With 3D Printing
Wrapping up, Chris Borge showcases the benefits of 3D printing in upcycling and repairing vintage products, specifically focusing on vintage bar lamps. With a mission to save products from ending up in landfills, the Chris takes three discarded lamps, each with various damages, and sets out to breathe new life into them. By replacing the old bulbs with panels of LED strip lights, he tackles common issues like heat damage, demonstrating a straightforward yet effective approach to repair, complemented by 3D printing.
What do you think of this week’s highlights? Did you know about 3D printing’s role in the Thousand Suns spacesuit? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly newsletter here for the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.
Read More: Top 5 Videos: The Journey of 3D Printing a Spacesuit for 'A Thousand Suns' - 3D Printing News