The coolest thing to 3D print is something that is useful, creative, and personalized. 3D printing is a technology that allows you to create physical objects from digital models. You can use 3D printing to make anything from jewelry, toys, art, and clothing, to medical devices, prosthetics, and even houses. 3D printing is not only cool, but also has the potential to revolutionize various industries and improve lives. In this article, we will explore some of the coolest things that you can 3D print and how they can benefit you and the world.
3D Printed Musical Instruments
If you are a music lover, you might be interested in 3D printing your own musical instruments. 3D printing can enable you to customize the design, shape, and sound of your instruments, as well as save money and time. You can 3D print guitars, violins, flutes, drums, and more. Some examples of 3D printed musical instruments are:
- The F-F-Fiddle: This is a fully functional electric violin that can be 3D printed in four parts and assembled with screws, nuts, and electronics. The F-F-Fiddle was designed by David Perry, a musician and engineer, who wanted to make a violin that was affordable, easy to play, and sounded great. You can download the files and instructions from his website and print your own F-F-Fiddle.
- The 3Dvarius: This is a 3D printed electric violin that was inspired by the famous Stradivarius violin. The 3Dvarius was created by Laurent Bernadac, a violinist and engineer, who wanted to make a violin that was ergonomic, lightweight, and durable. The 3Dvarius is made of transparent resin and has a sleek and futuristic design. You can order the 3Dvarius from the official website or print your own version from the open-source files.
- The Zoybar: This is a 3D printed modular guitar that can be customized and transformed into different instruments. The Zoybar was invented by Ziv Bar Ilan, a musician and entrepreneur, who wanted to make a guitar that was versatile, innovative, and collaborative. The Zoybar consists of a core unit and various attachments that can be 3D printed or purchased from the online store. You can create your own Zoybar or join the online community and share your designs and ideas.
3D Printed Clothing and Accessories
If you are a fashion enthusiast, you might be interested in 3D printing your own clothing and accessories. 3D printing can enable you to create unique, stylish, and functional items that fit your personality and preferences. You can 3D print dresses, shoes, bags, jewelry, and more. Some examples of 3D printed clothing and accessories are:
- The Kinematics Dress: This is a 3D printed dress that is composed of thousands of interlocking triangles that form a flexible and fluid fabric. The Kinematics Dress was designed by Nervous System, a design studio that specializes in generative and computational design. The Kinematics Dress can be customized and fitted to your body shape and size using a web app. You can order the Kinematics Dress from the Nervous System website or download the files and print your own dress.
- The Adidas Futurecraft 4D: This is a 3D printed running shoe that features a lattice-like midsole that provides optimal cushioning, stability, and comfort. The Adidas Futurecraft 4D was developed by Adidas in collaboration with Carbon, a 3D printing company that uses a technology called Digital Light Synthesis. The Adidas Futurecraft 4D can be tailored to your foot shape and performance needs using data and algorithms. You can buy the Adidas Futurecraft 4D from select retailers or wait for the mass production that is planned for 2024.
- The XYZ Bag: This is a 3D printed handbag that has a geometric and minimalist design. The XYZ Bag was created by XYZ Workshop, a design studio that focuses on 3D printing and digital fabrication. The XYZ Bag is made of PLA, a biodegradable plastic, and has a magnetic closure and a leather strap. You can download the files and instructions from the XYZ Workshop website and print your own XYZ Bag.
3D Printed Prosthetics and Medical Devices
If you are a health-conscious person, you might be interested in 3D printing your own prosthetics and medical devices. 3D printing can enable you to create personalized, affordable, and accessible items that can improve your health and quality of life. You can 3D print artificial limbs, organs, implants, and more. Some examples of 3D printed prosthetics and medical devices are:
- The e-NABLE Hand: This is a 3D printed prosthetic hand that can be controlled by the user’s wrist movements. The e-NABLE Hand was developed by e-NABLE, a global network of volunteers who use 3D printing to provide free prosthetic hands to people in need. The e-NABLE Hand is made of PLA and has a simple and modular design that can be customized and assembled by the user or a helper. You can join the e-NABLE community and request or offer a hand, or download the files and print your own hand.
- The BioPen: This is a 3D printed pen that can deliver stem cells and biomaterials to repair damaged tissues and organs. The BioPen was invented by researchers from the University of Wollongong and St Vincent’s Hospital in Australia, who wanted to create a device that could facilitate the regeneration of cartilage, bone, and muscle. The BioPen works like a 3D printer, but instead of extruding plastic, it extrudes a gel-like substance that contains living cells and growth factors. You can watch the BioPen in action on YouTube or read more about it on the University of Wollongong website.
- The Osteoid: This is a 3D printed cast that can heal broken bones faster and more comfortably. The Osteoid was designed by Deniz Karasahin, a industrial designer, who wanted to make a cast that was breathable, lightweight, and hygienic. The Osteoid is made of ABS, a durable plastic, and has a lattice-like structure that allows air and water to pass through. The Osteoid also has a low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) device that can stimulate bone growth and reduce healing time. You can learn more about the Osteoid on the A’Design Award website or contact the designer for more information.
Conclusion
3D printing is a cool technology that can enable you to create amazing things that are useful, creative, and personalized. Whether you are interested in music, fashion, or health, you can find something that suits your interests and needs. 3D printing is not only cool, but also has the potential to revolutionize various industries and improve lives. If you want to try 3D printing, you can buy a 3D printer, use a 3D printing service, or join a 3D printing community. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination.