‘Print-in-Place’ Articulable 3D Prints
This research project introduces an interdisciplinary process for implementing 3D digital content across rapid prototyping, digital animation, and stop motion technologies. The project particularly focuses on making ‘Print-in-Place’ designs, which are products that come off of a 3D printer fully assembled without any extra manufacturing effort.
Previous research explored a similar design methodology using SLS 3D printers, but this project prioritized the use of FDM 3D printers, which are much more accessible and affordable.
FDM 3D printers conventionally require support structures for these types of ‘Print-in-Place’ designs, but this project demonstrates how one could make models without them—saving on costs and physical materials.
The project aims to bridge the gap between expressing content in a virtual space and items in the physical world. In other words, it expresses the concept of transmedia.
I presented this project at various research conferences, including the 2022 Harvard National Collegiate Research Conference (NCRC) and the 2022 National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR).
Spencer Cohen 