5 Fun Projects to 3D Print
Print figurines and toys, learn scanning and modeling tricks, and make an extruder from a diesel glow plug!
Digital Fabrication
Digital fabrication tools have revolutionized the way designers, engineers, and artisans express their creativity. With the right resources, you can learn to use these powerful instruments in no time! Whether it’s 3D printing or laser cutting that interests you, these articles will provide useful tutorials and inspiration for makers of all levels. Discover how digital fabrication can open up new possibilities so that your craftsmanship is truly extraordinary!
3D Printing Umbilical Cord Clamps in Haiti
Our organization, iLab // Haiti has brought the first two 3D printers (Replicator 1’s) to the country of Haiti. We’re teaching them to 3D model using SketchUp and Rhino, with the hope of teaching Autodesk’s Inventor. They will be printing medical devices like umbilical cord clamps, to bypass the inefficient and corrupt import systems that are currently the only option available.
Ben Katz’ Electric Tricycle
One of the scooters at World Maker Faire that caught my eye was Ben Katz’ sweet scooter whose design is inspired by the Radio Flyer trike. Ben designed the tricycle around a brushless Turnigy motor, visualized the trike in Sketchup, welded, and machined the frame, and added a 40v LiFePO4 battery, motor controller, and gearbox. It can theoretically reach a top speed of over 45 MPH!
Building a Tribe With Kinetic Steam Works
At this past year’s Maker Faire Bay Area, I had the privilege of riding atop a steam-powered Case 40 horsepower steam traction engine from 1940 with Stephen Rademaker.
Blokify 3D Modeling Software
Blokify’s custom block-based 3D modeling software makes it easy for folks, especially kids, to build object models, which they can then send directly to a home 3D printer or get printed through Blokify’s service. Giving kids easy access to designing and printing their own toys has great impact on creative potential.
Maker Faire Rome: Joe’s Favorites
Joe Hudy’s favorite picks from Maker Faire Rome 2013.
3D-Printed DSLR Camera Gimbal
Vince Hogg’s super sweet pan and tilt system for his oct-rotor. It weighs only 900 grams including the camera, carbon rods, iPower 4008-150 gimbal motors, AlexMos motor controller and mounting bracket.