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Best gadgets to 3d print
20 Useful 3D Printed Gadgets of July 2022
If you already have experience with 3D Printing and are familiar with 3D printers, in addition to the parts and other designs required by your company, why not try printing some cool 3D gadgets that can simplify your life? We have collected 20 useful 3D printable gadgets that can be easily printed to provide more convenience for your life, and hopefully can inspire you to use 3D printing to print more handy gadgets.
Image Source: samster 3d
1. Customizable Cable Tie
This is a tiny handy gadget, but you may always forget to buy it or always consume it too fast. When you should use it but run out of it, at that time, you can use your 3D printer to print a tie, and you can find the corresponding 3D model online or design one yourself. Remember to print a practical tie with suitable material.
Image Source: Devin Montes
2. Phone Tripod
When you want to use your phone to take a picture of yourself or a group photo of yourself and your friends, this phone tripod may help you. It is made of printable resin material and some simple standard screw mounting. Many people have tried to 3D print their phone tripods and install adjustable screw mounts on the top so that it is not only a cool phone gadget that can also be mounted GoPro and camera but also a multi-purpose tripod.
Image Source: TB3D
3. GoPro Knuckles
GoPro is convenient for taking photos and filming a video, but when you are using GoPro, it is always inconvenient to hold because GoPro is so small and easy to lose. Why not try 3D Printing GoPro Knuckles, which can be well held to capture your landscape on the journey, but also according to the size of your hand to 3D print a GoPro Knuckles that best suits you.
It only takes you three hours to 3D print and assembles. You will have a unique and handy gadget made by yourself.
Image Source: Wanhao
4.Spice Rack Pullout
Always felt that the fridge is too cluttered? Can't find the drinks or snacks you want? Maybe a Spice Rack Pullout can help you organize your refrigerator. Its principle is straightforward. It is a 3D printable gadget. The advantage of 3D printing is that it can be designed to meet your usage habits and fit the size of your refrigerator. With it, you can quickly sort and organize your refrigerator.
Image Source: SpongyBob
5.Cable Guard
Is your charging cable always damaged for various reasons? Especially the iPhone charging cable is always extra fragile. You only need a small gadget to help you extend the life of your charging cable.
3D Printing such a useful gadget will not take much time, but it will help you save money on purchasing charging cables.
Image Source: Sergio Romero
6. Screw-on Bag Clip
This useful gadget is a bag clip that consists of three parts. You can 3D print it separately with your 3D printer. This Screw-on Bag Clip can be excellent for keeping the food in the bag fresh, and more than that, because it has a design like a bottle cap, it can also be easily opened or closed.
Image Source: WildVal
7. Charging Outlet Shelf
When you want to charge your phone, you will find that not all the outlets are just the right location, some locations are too narrow, and some have no places to put the phone. Then this Charging Outlet Shelf will be an excellent solution to these problems. This cool phone gadget will allow you to charge anywhere without any trouble.
Image Source: Tosh Sayama
8. Lens Cap
Whether as a hobbyist or professional photographer, you will know how easy it is to neglect and lose the lens cap. It is also a 3D printable gadget. Instead of spending money every time to buy a different size lens cap, why not print your lens cap at home? 3D printing your own lens cap can be much cheaper than buying the original one. Their role is not much different.
Image Source: MyMiniFactory Spare Parts
9. Keychain Phone Stand
You may have ordinary keychains, or perhaps you can buy your favorite ACG peripheral. But since you are familiar with 3d printing, why not try printing a peripheral keychain of your favorite movie or anime keychains, you can design it according to an online 3D model, or you can design your peripheral keychain with iconic elements. It will be the most meaningful one of your cool gadgets.
Image Source: rorys3D
10. Buckle
Buckles may be very common but are not durable and often appear damaged. And it also belongs to 3D printed gadgets. If you design a durable 3D print buckle model, it is simple and easy to print and saves you money in buying buckles.
Image Source: CANAVESE DANIEL
11. Sandal
Maybe you wear sandals every day, but you never thought you could print your pair of sandals, which can be customized to the size and shape of your feet because not everyone's feet are exactly the same as the standard size. If you print this cool gadget, you can choose the shape and color you want and choose the suitable soft and hard resin to print. It has the potential to be the most comfortable pair of sandals you've ever had.
Image Source: Franc Falco
12.
Desk Bag Hook
When the desktop is full of stuff did not have enough places to put your bag, you will need a 3D printable gadget called a desk bag hook. This desk bag hook is different from other hooks that require punching or EVA. It takes the use of knowledge of mechanics to achieve balance. It is suitable for any table thickness and easy to carry. Remember to use PETG material to print to ensure that it is solid and durable.
Image Source: PieSupplies
13. Glasses Case
A glasses case is a useful gadget for people who wear glasses, but it is always forgotten or lost, so why not use 3D Printing technology to promise a few more? They can be designed according to your glasses size and type, not only can reflect your personality but also can protect your glasses.
Image Source: Laura Pantaleone
14.
Coin Sorter
Always get a lot of coins from the supermarket or restaurant for change, too heavy and inconvenient to put in the wallet, and easy to find at home, this time you can design a 3D printed coin sorter, you can set different heights, column such as the height of ten penny coins put full you set a dime, very convenient to calculate.
Image Source: Eugene Pentland
15. Cable Organizer
Phone charging and mouse cables are always cluttered on the desktop and negatively affect our work and study. You can use 3D printing technology to print a small gadget named a cable organizer, design the color and size, print how many to store your charging cable, and the desktop becomes neat.
Image Source: MarvinGbrt
16. Vases
There are many different styles of vases, but some uncommon vases are challenging to buy.
For lovers of flower arrangement, the best 3D Printing small gadget is their printing vase design by themselves. Because it can perfectly meet their needs, the design of the vase is also relatively simple, and printing will not take too much time.
Image Source: Clockspring
17. Phoneholder
Modern people cannot leave the phone for a second, even in the bathroom. If you 3D printing an phoneholder hang it on the glass door of the shower room, or hanging on the hook. You can design some hole on the bottom as a sound amplifier, you can listen to songs while take a shower, for modern people is really a useful and cool phone gadget.
Image Source: Roy Santome
18. Pencil Holder
Whether you go to school or work, you need a pen to help you. So you will need a pencil holder since the market's pencil holders don't seem innovative.
Why not print one if you want to show your personality? You can design some different pen holders. It can be simple, convenient, complex, and exquisite, using 3d printing technology to design cool 3D printed gadgets.
Image Source: Erwin Boxen
19. Proteus Key Holder
Keychains can be great for stringing all your keys together, but a proteus key holder brings all your keys together and organizes them. So, you can quickly find the right one from all your keys. Come along and try 3D printing this handy gadget.
Image Source: Protean Man
20. Toothpaste Squeezer
Toothpaste becomes very difficult to squeeze out when it only has the last bit at the end. It would help if you had a useful gadget. A toothpaste squeezer can be a good solution to this problem. You only need to print out the three parts and a simple assembly, and you can get this practical toothpaste squeeze.
Image Source: Lizandro
20 Useful & Cool things to 3D print for 2023 [Models free]
As we move closer to the future, more and more amazing inventions are being made. 3D printing is one of the coolest technologies to emerge in recent years. It has already allowed people to create all sorts of cool things, and the best is yet to come!
In this blog post, we will take a look at 20 coolest things to 3D print in 2023. These items include everything from gadgets and toys to tools and useful household things! Most of the models are free to download, so be sure to check them out.
10 Cool things to 3D print for gamers
1.1. DIY Phone Trigger Buttons (PUBG Mobile/ ROS/ Fornite)
You can 3D print all sorts of cool things for your phone, including trigger buttons that help improve your aim. These 3D-printed L1R1 trigger buttons are a great way to make it easier to play first-person shooter (FPS) games and battle royale games on your phone.
They work with any touchscreen phone, and they’re easy to install. Just print out a pair of L1R1 trigger buttons and stick them onto your phone.
Who made it: Angelo Casimiro
Where to download: Thingiverse
1.2. Tesla Cybertruck 3D Models
This Tesla Cybertruck 3D Model was updated on 2021, included 14 files for each accessories.
Who made it: A good mate.
Where to download: Creality Cloud
1.3. Squid Game Soldiers - keychain
One popular option is to print out keychains featuring characters or objects from their favorite games. For example, this Squid Game Soldiers keychain features the three soldiers from the popular game, complete with their respective shapes - circle, square, and triangle. Not only does this make for a unique and stylish keychain, but it's also a great conversation starter with other gamers.
Who made it: asifn20
Where to download: crealitycloud
1.4. Headphone stand (setup themed)
A headphone stand is one of the most useful 3D printables for gamers.
This particular model is themed after a gaming setup, with a gaming console in the background and controllers on either side. It's a great way to show off your gaming gear, and it also keeps your headphones nice and tidy.
Who made it: George Noyce
Where to download: thingiverse
1.5. Articulating, Wall-Mounted, Magnetic Phone Mount
Gamers can find all sorts of coolest 3d printed things, but one of the coolest is a phone mount. This handy tool can attach to walls or be bent into any position, making it perfect for hands-free gaming. This model uses magnets to keep your phone in place, so you don't have to worry about it falling or slipping. Whether you're watching a movie or playing a game, this mount is a great way to keep your phone within reach.
Who made it: Kenneth Haynie
Where to download: thingiverse
1.6. Articulating Raspberry Pi Camera Mount
If you're looking for a cool thing to 3D print for gamers, an articulated camera mount is a great option.
This camera is for anyone who wants to be able to remotely monitor their prints or take pictures or videos of their prints in progress. The Raspberry Pi controller makes it possible to have a fully flexible camera that can be adjusted to get the perfect view.
Who made it: Sneaks
Where to download: Prusa
1.7. Squeeze Fan
Now, you can even use 3D printing to make your own hand-powered squeeze fan. This design is perfect for camping trips, emergency kits, and other scenarios where power or batteries might be hard to come by. To use it, just squeeze the handle and the inner gears will turn the propellers.
Who made it: George Zhu
Where to download: thingiverse
1.8. Cute Skull Lamp
As a gamer, you know that accessories can make all the difference. Why not add a touch of spooky fun to your gaming setup with these adorable skull lamps? They’re easy to print and only take an inexpensive strand of LED lights and a few batteries to assemble them.
Furthermore, you're able to utilize any different filament color – the see-through filaments make for interesting light effects.
Who made it: rayjizza
Where to download: Prusa
1.9. Knurled Tri-Spinner EDC Fidget Widget
If you're looking for a cool new way to spin, try out this knurled tri-spinner! With its textured sides and peg cap, it's easier to grip and spin than traditional fidget spinners. Plus, the triple-bearing design ensures a smooth, fast spin.
Who made it: 3DCentralVA
Where to download: thingiverse
1.10. Nintendo Switch Single Joy-Con Grip + And-
Looking for a cool way to improve your Nintendo Switch gaming experience? Check out this awesome 3D-printed Joy-Con grip that doesn't require a strap! This design features an easily accessible button, so you can game in comfort and style.
Who made it: manabun
Where to download: thingiverse
Part 2. 10 Useful household cool things to 3D print
2.
1. Cable HolderIf you're looking for a way to organize your cords and cables, then this 3D printable cable holder is perfect for you. It can hold a variety of different cables, so you won't have to worry about them falling off your desk.
Who made it: TJH5
Where to download: thingiverse
2.2. Tripod
This 3D printable tripod is a great tool to have around the house. It can be used to position a camera, phone, or another device. The tripod is made up of nine components that can be easily printed on a 3D printer. It also has a universal camera mount screw so you can easily attach your device.
Who made it: Djanba
Where to download: MyMiniFactory
2.3. Pen Holder
There are many different household items that can be 3D printed, and a pencil holder is a great option. This specific design is one of a kind and will make your desk look neat and tidy. The print time is long, but it's definitely worth it.
Who made it: damm301
Where to download: Thingiverse
2.
4. Universal Bottle OpenerUniversal Bottle Opener or "UBO" is a great option for those who are looking for useful things to 3d print in their home. This little tool can open large juice bottles, sports drink bottles, soda bottles, canned drinks, and pop tops! It's a great addition to any kitchen and is sure to come in handy. So if you're looking for a nifty little item to add to your 3D printing repertoire, consider printing out a UBO.
Who made it: In3Designs
Where to download: Thingiverse
2.5. Tube Squeezer
The Tube Squeezer is a simple printable tool that can help get the most out of your tubes of toothpaste, lotion, and other household items. With this handy tool, you can save time and money by getting more use out of every tube.
Who made it: Starno
Where to download: Thingiverse
2.6. Blank Phone Case
Phone cases are one of the best household cool things to 3d print that you can print with a 3D printer.
If you’re tired of getting a new phone case every time you get a new phone, then you can simply print one yourself using your 3D printer. There are a ton of different designs and patterns to choose from online, so you’re sure to find one that fits your style.
Who made it: darra7
Where to download: cults3
2.7. Self-Watering Planter
One of the most useful things to 3D print is an automatic plant waterer, also known as a self-watering planter. With a few simple adjustments, you can easily print an automatic plant waterer, to keep your plants nice and healthy. The Self-Watering Planter was designed to be 3D printed, easy to setup, use, and clean; while at the same time allowing for customization through mixing and matching different colors for the pot and reservoir.
Who made it: parallelgoods
Where to download: cults3
2.8. Fully assembled 3D printable wrench
A fully assembled 3D printable wrench is a great household tool that can be 3D printed.
A 3D-printed wrench can be just as strong and durable as a regular wrench, and it can also be customized to fit your needs.
Who made it: barspin
Where to download: thingiverse
2.9. Breakdown Coat Hanger
If you're looking for a cool and unique way to hang up your clothes, you should consider 3D printing your own hanger! You can customize the size and shape to perfectly fit your needs, and it will be a great addition to any room in your home.
Who made it: Komaru
Where to download: thingiverse
2.10. Parametric Hinges
Here is one useful option – parametric hinges. These hinges can be customized to fit your specific needs, and they can be printed in one step. This makes them a convenient option for your 3D printer projects.
Who made it: rohingosling
Where to download: thingiverse
Conclusion
While there are plenty of things you can find to 3D print for fun or practicality, those aren't the only options.
As technology continues to develop, so too does the potential for what we can create with a 3D printer.
In the coming years, we will see more and more people utilizing this technology in ways we never thought possible, and 2023 is shaping up to be a big year for 3D printing. So if you're looking for something new and interesting to 3D print, keep an eye on the latest developments - you might be surprised at what you find.
50 3D Printing Ideas
It looks like we'll soon be drowning in useless stuff made for 3D printing projects. But you can do something that will really be useful! If you're running out of ideas, here's a list of 50 3D printable items you're unlikely to throw away.
Bag clip with screw cap
Now the bag clip will have a new feature - a hole with a lid for quick access, as in the photo. This clip is easy to print and convenient to use. Strange that no one thought of this before.
Author: Minkix
Download: Thingiverse
Modular Furniture Connector
This connector allows you to quickly assemble modular furniture. The default model is designed for 17×17 mm wood, but the size and material can be changed to suit your needs using a parametric file for customization.
Author: LeFabShop
Where to download: Cults
Sealant cap
No more throwing open sealant tubes away. The screw cap for the nozzle presses the o-ring tightly against the body of the tube and closes the access of air to the solvents inside.
Author: The-Mechanic
Where to download: Thingiverse
Laptop niche
Now the laptop will always be at hand, but hidden from prying eyes in a special niche that is attached to the bottom of any coffee table.
Author: Too Snide
Download: Thingiverse
Phone holder - Candice
Elegant and simple, perhaps the easiest thing you can print on a 3D printer.
Author: Clem.C2
Where to download: Cults
Polypanels
The idea for Polypanels came from Devin Montes.
A polypanel is a series of three-dimensional building blocks. The individual elements of a Polypanel look simple, but if you print a lot of them and different types, you can create all sorts of complex designs. Something like LEGO where you can design each brick.
Author: MakeAnything
Where to download: MyMiniFactory
Coat Hook
This coat hook is designed as an E3D attachment and can be printed multiple times to fit all your clothes.
Author: Filar3D
Where to download: Cults
Plant Pot
This anatomical brain flower pot is easier to print than it looks, creator DrFemPop says. For assembly, it is only necessary to glue the parts after printing. It turns out an original house for plants.
Author: DrFemPop
Where to download: Cults
Door Holder
This is a simple solution for holding a door. Double-sided adhesive tape is sufficient for surface mounting.
Author: Akiraraiser
Where to download: Thingiverse
Piggy bank
A simple piggy bank for beginners, no complicated settings.
Author: lecaramel
Where to download: Thingiverse
Cable ties
This tie is perhaps the simplest and most ingenious of all devices. Clips are printed as a whole sheet at once, and then the required amount can be cut off from it.
Author: Sunshine
Where to download: Cults
Roller ruler
An indispensable device if you need to measure the length of something non-linear: a piece of rope, a curved line, a perimeter with bends, etc. The ruler is called Geneva and has step 5 mm.
Author: MechEngineerMike
Where to download: Thingiverse
Pliers
This small, solid piece of plastic can easily replace your pliers / pliers. These forceps take the force to the handles and redistribute it at the end of the grip. It's definitely pliers. Just smarter.
Author: BYU CMR
Where to download: Thingiverse
Cylindrical textured box
Beautiful tube from Syboulette decorated with hexagons.
Well suited as a kitchen utensil for storing oatmeal, rice and other crumbly substances.
Author: Syboulette
Where to download: Cults
Door stopper
This stopper is modeled after the Guyer Anderson cat statue in the British Museum. The design is hollow, which allows you to fill the limiter with something for additional weight.
Author: Duaneindeed
Where to download: Cults
Plague Doctor Mask
Not exactly the most useful item on the list since bubonic plague is a thing of the past. But a mask can come in handy, for example, when you need to clean up after your pet. And you can also go to the carnival in it.
Author: Odrivious
Download: Cults
Universal Spool Holder
This adjustable spool holder uses a spring and an adjustable rewind clutch. It's the perfect place to store those pesky wires.
Who made it: Vincent Goenhuis
Where to download: Thingiverse
Sturdy waterproof box
This tight-fitting box will keep things from getting wet.
Print it in PLA or PETG, add a flexible TPU seal and M3 screws for the spring hinge, and you're done.
Author: ZX82
Where to download: Cults
Dice
This dice is suitable for flat 3D printing and has a face size of 16mm.
Author: Devin Montes (MakeAnything)
Where to download: MyMiniFactory
Collapsible Coat Rack
Really cool coat rack. That's all there is to say about her.
Author: Komaru
Where to download: Thingiverse
Business Card Holder
Great for showing off your new business cards to your Wall Street friends. What could be more delightful than this Zippo card holder with flip-top lid.
Author: PentlandDesigns
Where to download: Cults
Pencil and pen holder
Iceberg or melting beehive? Be that as it may, this is a handy pen and pencil holder that is cheaper to print than to buy.
Author: BeeVeryCreative
Where to download: Cults
Groovi Monster Audio Amplifier
This is a passive smartphone audio amplifier that looks stylish and does the job well.
It's called Groovi Monster for a reason.
Author: 3DShook
Where to download: Cults
Cup holder
Can be used not only as a cup holder, but also as a coaster for hot dishes. The dimensions of the template are easily adjusted to suit any size cookware.
Author: jmdbcool
Where to download: Thingiverse
Clamp
Designed for fixing various materials, including the ends of the wire in the coil. Also great as a clothespin replacement.
Author: Med
Where to download: Cults
Pencil Box
Suitable for storing all your desk trivia and trinkets (memory cards, rubber bands, pencils, paper clips, etc.).
Author: Monkey3D
Where to download: Cults
Headphone holder
This is a duck. Yes, you can hang headphones on it.
Author: Toshi_TNE
Download: Thingiverse
Polyhedral Succulent Pot
Unusual geometric pots for your growing succulent collection.
These small pots can be configured to be connected together.
Author: PrintFutura
Download: Cults
Survival Whistle
This is a survival whistle with original design. It is durable, easy to make and very loud (118 dB is more than enough to be heard in an emergency).
Author: Joe Zisa
Where to download: Thingiverse
Measuring Cube
Simple and original measuring cube for the kitchen. On each side there are recesses for measuring the volume of ingredients (in cups - according to the American system, and in metric units for everyone else). It is best to print with PETG material, it is the safest for products.
Author: iomaa
Download: Thingiverse
Hinge
This is a parametric hinge that can be sized to fit your needs.
Written by Rohin Gosling
Download: Thingiverse
Car Eyeglass Holder
Attaches to your car's sun visor.
Glasses will always be at hand.
Author: Trevor Long
Download: Thingiverse
Opener
The simplest things are usually the most useful. Convenient and easy to print opener. Covers the sharp edges of the cork as much as possible, protecting you from injury.
Author: Jeremy Peterson
Download: Thingiverse
Superhero Keychains
Sometimes you need to remind yourself of your hidden superpowers. Stylish and cool keyrings are well suited as a small gift.
Author: Formbyte
Where to download: Cults
Headphone stand
It will be useful for music lovers and gamers who use headphones a lot and often. After all, now they will no longer roll around anywhere.
Author: MakerBot
Where to download: Thingiverse
Bag Clip
The model consists of two printed parts. Allows you to keep packages closed and keep food fresh longer.
Author: Walter Hsiao
Download: Thingiverse
Plastic wrench
Handy wrench, but don't choose soft plastic to make it.
Author: Daniel Noree
Where to download: Cults
Sliding Decal
No more worrying about whether cups are clean or dirty right now in the dishwasher! With the help of a special mechanism, the slider easily changes the inscription on the plate.
Who made it: MiddleFingerBoss
Where to download: Thingiverse
Collapsible basket
Cool picnic item. A folding square basket with five sections is printed from several parts and then glued together. For product safety, it is recommended to use PETG plastic.
Author: PatternToPrint
Where to download: Cults
Self-watering plant pot
Houseplants are dying from your forgetfulness? This will not happen again! This pot will water them by itself, and your conscience will be clear.
Author: Parallel Goods
Where to download: Cults
Maze Gift Box
Cash is not the most original gift. But if you present them in such a gift box, your friend will surely like it.
The lucky recipient will have to work hard to get to the prize, because there is only one right way.
Author: Robert
Download: Thingiverse
Wired headphone holder
The headphones will now be protected from tangling and breakage.
Author: Robert
Where to download: Thingiverse
Tube Squeezer
Will help squeeze out the contents of the tube to the last drop. Wide enough to fit most tubes on the market. Printed in three separate parts.
Author: Justin Otten
Where to download: Thingiverse
Webcam Shutter
The best thing for the paranoid and just for those who are uncomfortable being under the gun of a webcam. Instead of sticking tape or sticky tape over the lens, attach a slider shutter to the body and open it when you need a video call.
Author: Horizon Lab
Where to download: Cults
Hexagonal Prefabricated Drawers
Useful to free your desk from the noodles of cables, wires and just every little thing.
The design can be easily expanded if necessary.
Created by Dan O'Connell
Where to download: Cults
Wall Phone Shelf
Attach the shelf to a power outlet and place your phone on it while charging. The model also has a corner slot that holds your smartphone or tablet upright for watching videos.
Author: Tosh Sayama
Where to download: Cults
Card Shuffle Machine
Awesome item for poker lovers. This device will help to shuffle the cards and deal them during the game.
Author: LarsRb
Where to download: MyMiniFactory
Box with a secret lock
Box for storing things in a place inaccessible to prying eyes with a secret multi-stage opening mechanism.
Author: 3DPrintingWorld
Where to download: Thingiverse
Digital Sundial
Yes, your eyes don't deceive you. This is a digital sundial and it really works. They are designed to pass only the right beams at the right time and at the right angle to display the actual time in 20-minute intervals.
Only works during daylight hours, of course.
Author: Mojoptix
Where to download: Thingiverse
Keyring
Designed in the shape of a stylish Swiss Army knife, it looks amazing. Printed from two plates and the keys are held in place with standard hex nuts and bolts.
Author: Craig Blanchette
Where to download: Thingiverse
Translation of the article “50 Cool Things to 3D Print in June 2019”
What kind of gadget? 3D printer”
07/06/2016
Once the great Michelangelo, when asked how he creates his sculptures, replied: “I take a stone and cut off everything superfluous.” This principle is followed by many modern industries, converting materials into tons of shavings, sawdust and other waste. But there is another approach, akin to pottery - when, in fact, there is no waste, which makes production cheaper, more environmentally friendly and more accessible.
3D printers are just the technical embodiment of this approach.
What is a 3D printer and how does it work?
A 3D printer is a device that allows you to create objects with the same ease with which conventional printers print text. Of course, the speed of printing objects is significantly different from the speed of printing text - a modern printer will print one sheet in a fraction of a minute, and it will take several hours for an object. But hand-crafting the same item will also take more than a couple of minutes, and even an appropriate level of skill. And the 3D printer will do everything on its own, so that the freed up time can be usefully spent on other things. In fact, such a printer can be called a universal factory on your desk.
There are several basic technologies for printing objects. One involves the use of lasers, which crystallize the desired structure layer by layer from a special polymer. After the formation of the layer, a special clamp slightly lifts the object from the polymer bath and the next layer crystallizes.
The process, in terms of entertainment, resembles the transformation of a liquid metal robot from Terminator 2. Although this technology is still at the development stage, it is already the fastest way to 3D print. However, it is also the most expensive one. Lasers, special polymers - all this is very expensive. Although now there are models that use LCD displays instead of a laser, and the price for them is more reasonable.
The second way is a little cheaper. Lasers are also used here (some artisanal implementations work with solar energy to print glass vases). In this option, a container with a powder filler is used. The laser sinters one layer of material, after which the next layer of powder is added and leveled, and the laser passes over it again. As a result, as the capacity is filled, the required object is formed. Upon completion of printing, it is pulled out and cleaned, and the remaining powdered material is reused. Such models are more often used in industrial solutions, as they are rather bulky (due to deep capacitance).
The third and most common type of 3D printer creates objects layer by layer by depositing molten material onto a print bed. Consumables in them usually come in the form of bays or bars. They are wound at one end into the print head, where the heating element is located. The molten material is fed through the extruder at the same speed, which guarantees the uniformity of each applied layer. The thinner the layers, the more precise and smoother the surface of the printed object will be. Most often, there are models with a single extruder, which allow you to print only one material at a time. But there are also devices with a large number of extruders, which make it possible to obtain not only objects of complex shapes, but also combining various materials. These are the slowest of the 3D printers, but also the most common, as they take up minimal space and do not require any special conditions. This technology is so simple that even a 3D pen printer was developed on its basis, allowing you to quickly and easily create small crafts and models.
And at the same time, it is the most versatile – both solutions for printing buildings and bioprinters for printing internal organs have been created on its basis.
What is a 3D printer for?
The applications for 3D printers are varied. These devices, in addition to plastics, have mastered printing with metal, wood and mixed materials. Therefore, they are used not only for prototyping and various household trifles, but also for creating jewelry, dishes, art objects, mechanisms and many other things, up to parts of rocket engines. But this is the general case. At home, a 3D printer is useful for replacing broken parts of various devices - handles, gears, housings. It will allow you to forget about looking for a suitable smartphone stand or flower vase. The child will be able to supplement his homework with a visual embodiment of various geometric objects or chemical elements. And for fun, he will be able to print himself a designer, funny decorations for a doll, and even figures of cartoon characters or classmates.
You can have fun yourself, testing your ideas in practice and creating designs that have never been seen before.
You can create everything yourself, or you can use the developments of other users. A lot of communities have formed around 3D printers, in which there is an exchange of recommendations, ideas and ready-made 3D models for printing. So if you got a printer and don’t know what to create, you can peep a couple of interesting ideas in them.
What models of 3D printers are on the market?
In the field of 3D printers, there is a division into open and closed systems. Openness implies the availability on the network of all circuitry, drawings, files for printing and instructions for creating and assembling your own printer. In fact, you can assemble it yourself from improvised materials, and then print another one for your friend. At the same time, the software of such systems is available in open source. The most popular and proven open system is RepRap printers.
There are many models in this system. Some are assembled almost entirely from snap-on printed parts, some are geared towards miniature crafts, and some are geared towards large objects. But all of them are united by an open design, as well as the ability to improve and upgrade the device in the future. So, choosing an open system, you get not only a device for printing, but also a hobby for constantly improving your 3D assistant.
There are no less closed systems. They are more focused not on enthusiasts, but on end users. The issues of modernization and updating in them lie entirely with the manufacturer, and if he does not want to develop your model, but releases a completely new model, then you will have to come to terms with the fact that the device is outdated. At the same time, commercial systems have external and internal completeness - in terms of the quality of the case design, they are no worse than other household appliances. There are devices of various brands on the market: Leapfrog, Makerbot, 3DSystems, Mankati, Ultimaker, FlashForge, XYZprinting, Malyan and others.
