October 7, 2013
An exhibition dedicated to showcasing the latest innovations in 3D printing is to open at the London Science Museum October 9th 2013 - February 10th 2014. The exhibit Called '3D: Printing the Future' will feature contributions from Duke University’s Center for Metamaterials and Integrated Plasmonics (CMIP) with a number of leading companies in the rapid prototyping space, including Stratasys, and will explore the entire process of 3D printing - from scanning right through to the production of 3D models.
The increasing availability and decreasing cost of 3D printing technology has led to an explosion of creativity among innovators, from big businesses and the medical industry through to small start-ups, students, hackers and artists. This exhibition will explore the rapidly evolving field of 3D printing and its growing impact on society.
"It is gratifying to see 3D printing featured so prominently by one of the world's great science museums," said Arita Mattsoff, vp marketing, Stratasys. "Every day we are discovering exciting new applications for 3D printing. We hope that many visitors will take advantage of this opportunity to experience this amazing technology."
Suzy Antoniw, Exhibition Leader, Science Museum said, “3D printing enables engineers and designers to manufacture things they couldn’t make with traditional methods. Every day we learn about new ways in which people from across society are capitalizing on the technology to realize their ideas and enrich people’s lives. Our exhibition aims to shine a light on the latest developments and discuss where the technology may take us in future.”
Featuring contributions from Stratasys UK distributor Laser Lines Ltd, the exhibition will explore the process of 3D printing, from 3D scanning right through to the production of 3D models. The 150 statuettes were created from the scans of a selection of visitors who took part in the 3D scanning workshops run at the Museum by Digital Native Academy throughout August. The DNA team provided Laser Lines with the final 3D scan files required to 3D print the models, which range in height from 5 to 20cm. In total, the exhibition will boast 700 3D printed objects produced by a range of materials including nylon, titanium, sandstone, and many more.
The exhibition reveals some incredible stories of innovative individuals and their 3D printed creations. From organs printed with living cells to fuel-saving aero plane parts and an ingenious music box customized to play your favorite tune.
The exhibition is free to visitors and open to the public from Wednesday, October 9(th).
More information about the exhibitions.
About the Science Museum
As the home of human ingenuity, the Science Museum's world-class collection forms an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical achievements from across the globe. Welcoming over 3 million visitors a year, the Museum aims to make sense of the science that shapes our lives, inspiring visitors with iconic objects, award-winning exhibitions and incredible stories of scientific achievement.
Visitor Information
FREE Entry, Summer opening hours (25 July – 1 Sept): 10:00 - 19.00
Science Museum, Exhibition Road, London, SW7 2DD
0870 870 4868 | Science Museum Website
Social Media information
Facebook: sciencemuseumlondon
Twitter: #PrintingTheFuture