Exhibition highlights future of 3D printing
Work by students and staff exploring the future of 3D printing is on show in an exhibition co-curated by one of the country’s leading researchers into 3D prototyping, Victoria University’s Tim Miller.
The exhibition presents outcomes of research focused on pushing the boundaries of the digital and natural worlds, grouped under the themes ‘Pattern and Growth’, ‘Generative Code<’ and ‘Digital Materials’.
One highlight is Seamless Blossom—the world’s first inflatable 3D print—by Master of Design Innovation student Richard Clarkeson.
Seamless Blossom is a curved hollow chamber with flexible rubber. As you inflate it, it creates a gap of air that pushes against the inner layer, forcing the outer layers open—blooming like a flower.
The exhibition also explores digital anatomies, under the titles ‘Wearable Prosthetics’, ‘Structural Prosthetics’ and ‘Desirable Prosthetics’. These examples demonstrate how 3D scanning and printing allow the production of digitally tailored prosthetics that fit more exactly to the individual both physically and emotionally.
A 3D printed alternative to the traditional cast for fractured limbs is part of the show. Designed by a final year Bachelor of Design Innovation student, Jake Evill’s Cortex Cast is lighter, morebreathable and more hygienic than plaster casts, while still providing the same support for the healing process.
The exhibition complements a series of public talks organised by Hutt City Libraries, which is committed to growing people’s understanding and competence with technologies.
As part of the series, Tim will present a lecture on Wednesday 15 October on how 3D printing is being used in design and what we can expect to see in the future. His talk will be held at the Little Theatre, 2 Queens Drive, Lower Hutt from 7–8pm.
Student exhibition
The student exhibition is on now until 23 October at the War Memorial Library, Corner Queens Drive and Woburn Road, Lower Hutt. All welcome.