Hello World of 3D Printing!

In the computer community, the name of the first program most beginners learn is "Hello World".  Simliarly, the Jewelbots "Hello World" segment is a fun, bite-size intro to get you more excited about seeing science differently! This is where Jewelbots proves that the opposite of science is not girl!

When you think of 3D printing, what comes to mind? Is it the ability to print prosthetic body parts (or even organs!)? Is it the ability to build entire houses within fractions of standard construction time? 

The field of 3D printing is becoming rapidly innovative, which makes it seem super intimidating! But that never stopped anyone, and it shouldn't stop you!

3D printing tech is changing the way we produce objects; from toys to clothing! 3D printing is part of a process known as Additive Manufacturing, where an object is created by adding material layer by layer. Additive Manufacturing allows designers to create complex parts for machines, airplanes, and cars at a fraction of the cost and time. Now, smaller, cheaper printers are bringing 3D printing  to home and businesses for other exciting things!

The first step in 3D printing is to create a blueprint of the object you want to print. You can use modeling software, or visit websites like Thingiverse and Shapeways to find objects other users have 3D modeled. Once you finish your design, you can send it to the printer. When the printer receives the data, it pulls the given material through at tube, melts it, and deposits it to a plate, where it instantly cools. The printer will add one layer of the object at a time until an entire object is made.

The most common material used in 3D printing is plastic. But the use for some other materials allows for the creation of some pretty amazing products beyond tools and parts. For instance, 3D printing  is becoming very popular! The famous Dylan's Candy shop has their own exclusive 3D Candy Gummy printer! It can print anything from cute octopuses or even your own face in gummy form! Besides that, fashion designers are even using 3D printers to make elaborate shoes or accessory designs for models on the runway! 3D printing is technology that can be used by anyone; making the sky the limit of your creativity!