Richa | Geeetech https://blog.geeetech.com Get Your Ideas Into Life Mon, 01 Nov 2021 07:00:57 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://blog.geeetech.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/cropped-WechatIMG25-2-copy-32x32.png Richa | Geeetech https://blog.geeetech.com 32 32 Top 10 3D Printed models if you love video games! https://blog.geeetech.com/3d-printing-application/3d-printing-design/top-10-3d-printed-models-if-you-love-video-games/ Mon, 19 Mar 2018 15:00:40 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=9252 As an avid gamer, there will be loads of intricate figurines and memorabilia from your favorite video games that you will want to add to your collection. And if you’re someone who owns a 3D printer, then you can very well make your own 3D printed video game models!

List of 3D print video game models

So in today’s Top 10 list, let’s take a look at some of the coolest 3D printed models if you love video games!

Overwatch- Reaper

3D printed overwatch reaper

Thanks to the amazing 3D printing community it’s super easy to download and print just about any gaming model. And since Overwatch is so popular it’s not at all hard to find a 3D model of your favorite avatar.

If you’re wondering which watch models on Thingiverse happens to be the most popular(and the one with the most amount of makes) its shockingly not Tracer, but in fact- Reaper. And if you too want to print your own then you can find it on Thingiverse here.

Witcher- Wolf Medallion

3D print video game character as pendant

This Wolf Medallion may not vibrate like Geralt’s, but it definitely looks cool enough to pass off as the real thing! Designed by Daniel_W you can print out your own in silver PLA or paint it up after. Either way, it looks really cool and once you string it into a chain.

8 Bit Mario

Popular video game Super Mario is 3D printed

There are so many Mario models to choose from but this 8-bit version by jakejake is hands down our favorite. With 26 pieces to print, assembling this 3D printed Mario is a fun little puzzle all on its own. But once you’re done putting it all together, the final result is well worth it. Don’t you think so? Find the STL files and all the instructions for this design here.

World of Warcraft- The Lich King

3D printed world of warcraft

If you’re a fan of  World of Warcraft then you’ll agree that with a world so massive, there are plentiful characters that you can 3D print. However, we had to include the ice cold Lich King- Arthas Menethil because there’s nothing more badass than a figurine of Arthas wielding the Frostmourne! Made by Matthew McKeown you can find this design on MyMiniFactory here.

Legend of Zelda- Majoras Mask

Famous 3D print video game mask model

We could probably make a whole list solely on all the awesome Legend of Zelda printables available out there. But if we’re going to pick just one then it has to be this fantastic design of Majoras Mask made by WeeMadSausage.

The design itself is intricate, vibrant and beautiful. You don’t have to use a wood filament but using it does add a certain charm to the mask, making it more realistic.

Portal- Companion Cube

Cube print

Doesn’t this 3D printed Companion Cube look like it came straight out of the Portal game? Created by Ellindsey this model consists of 40 different 3D printed parts that are designed to snap together well enough that you won’t even need any glue!

Minecraft- Chess Set

3D print video game chess models

What do you get when you merge the world of Minecraft with chess? A creative and aesthetic design by PotatoFi that is sure to rekindle your curiosity in the game of chess. And even if you don’t intend to play, it makes for a great showpiece too. You can download the STL files for this print here along with the instructions and tips from the maker.

Doom- Electronic Doomguy models

Doom 3D print video game model

After taking a look at these adorable figurines you may find it hard to believe that Doom is a brutally intense game where you’re killing demons but nevertheless, we love these models made by zembacraftworks. Oh and they’re electronic too! Check out Zemba Craftworks easy tutorial so you that you can make your own!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__2k-Lft820

Mortal Kombat- Sub Zero Mask

3D printed kombat model

You too can be as cool as Sub Zero(get it?) once you 3D print his mask! Designed by Geoffro you can use this mask as a prop or even as cosplay. Just be sure to credit the designer! Find the print files here!

The Elder Scrolls V:  Vampire Lord Bust

3D print vampire model

Create your very own eerie Vampire Lord Bust from Skyrim thanks to designer Vsions and his stunning 3D printed model. There are two parts to this model- the main bust and some small horns which can later be assembled. Follow the instructions and STL files available on Thingiverse- here. Are you happy with 3D printed video game models?

Need a 3D printer to get started? Go check out our Store!

Credits: thingiverse.com

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8 DIY 3D Prints For Every Kitchen! https://blog.geeetech.com/3d-printing-application/3d-printing-design/8-diy-3d-prints-for-every-kitchen/ Thu, 08 Mar 2018 14:30:16 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=9105 Since we’ve used 3D printed to make all sorts of cool and nifty objects, it’s only fair we made some for the kitchen too!  Whether you make these for a loved one or for your own kitchen, these 3D printed kitchen tools will simplify your everyday kitchen tasks. So take a look at 3D prints for kitchen.

8 Best 3D prints for the kitchen

Measuring cube

3D printed measurable cube for kitchen

You’ve definitely seen measuring cups in the kitchen but how about a measuring cube? This unique design made by iomaa is the perfect addition to your kitchen and you’ll never need multiple spoons to get your measures right because this cube does it all! However, if you found this Measuring Cube useful, don’t forget to fill up the survey mentioned on its Thingiverse page!

Juicer

3D printed juice squeezer

Everyone loves freshly squeezed juice with breakfast and if you can’t find your old fruit juicer(or if you just don’t have one) then it’s time to print one for the kitchen! Another awesome design by iomaa, all you need to do is print out this easy Juice Squeezer and get juicing!

Second Life Mug

3D printed designer glasses

As the name suggests, this handy little design breathes a second life into your old mason jars/glasses and lets you use them as a mug! It fits a regular “Bonne Maman” jar but you can scale the size up to suit your need. So why throw away perfectly good glass jars when you can upcycle them into quirky mugs? Made by LeFabShop this print is available to download here.

Sink Basket Strainer

3D printed stuff for kitchen

It’s hard to find a good strain for the kitchen sink so why not 3D print one out? Designed by LoboCNC this sink strainer will fit a standard US kitchen sink drain. It fits perfectly and stops rubbish from blocking your drain. To create the mesh you can adjust your infill pattern. You can find the STL files and instructions for printing this strainer here.

Floating Gravity Wine Bottle Holder

3D printed wine bottle holder for kitchen

An innovative way to store your wine, this one will definitely be a conversation starter amongst guests! You can 3D print this awesome wine holder either in two parts(for smaller printers) or as one individual part. And don’t worry about your bottling toppling over- it’s safe and secure. Made by creator AndrewSink find this design on Thingiverse here.

Bag Clips

3D printed clips for kitchen

Say bye-bye to soggy chips thanks to this handy bag clip designed by MasterFX which will seal any bag easily. The design itself is easy to print and you can use ABS as well as PLA to make this. And if you want a bigger size you can follow the print dimensions mentioned in the instructions here.

Cookie Cutters

3D prints cookie cutter

If you love baking then you’ll love 3D printing your own cookie cutters! Fun to print and even more, fun to use in the kitchen, you’ll never have to shop for another cookie-cutter again thanks to the amazing 3D printing community. Creator OogiMe made this creative Easter Egg Cookie Cutter along with many other cool designs that you can check out on Thingiverse.

Smart One-Handed Bottle Opener

It’s time to crack open a cold one with the boys and what you really need is this one-handed bottle opener, because why not? Using two hands is basically over-rated and creator Kart5a understands how lazy we can get. Besides, it leaves your other hand free to dig into a bag of chips! Available on Thingiverse you can find this design hereThe hope the article is helpfully related to 3D prints for kitchen.

And if you’re still looking for a 3D printer why not check our Store for some cool choices?

Credits: thingiverse.com

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Troubleshooting: Easy ways you can prevent layer shifts https://blog.geeetech.com/3d-printing-trouble-shooting-guide/troubleshooting-layer-shift-problems-while-3d-printing/ Thu, 01 Mar 2018 14:30:16 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=9025 The 3D Printing Problem

troubleshoot these layer shift problem of 3D printed object

Your print may start out looking fine but as it progresses, you notice a shift in between the layers. It looks similar to a step and this effect is known as a layer shift. It may be subtle or could end up ruining your print entirely! So to overcome this troubleshooting layer shift problems while 3D printing process.

Why does it happen?

There are many different reasons that contribute to shifting in the layers. So it’s hard to pinpoint it to just one. The most common, however, is the slipping of pulleys and loose grub screws. But it could also be something as simple as nudging your printer and causing a disturbance in the print job.

How to fix layer shift problems by troubleshooting?

Fix the Print Bed firmly in place 

Check the print bed to see if there are any clips or screws that have become loose. Since printers have detachable print beds it’s a common problem that occurs. But also one that can be fixed easily with the help of pliers.

Similarly, ensure that the printer is on a stable and secure base. As well as kept in an area where it is not prone to be knocked or hit. You’ll notice that even a small disturbance to the printer. During your print job can cause shifting or other layer issues.

Fix the grub screws

Fit the screw to overcome it

When there are sudden shifts in layers, it’s most probably due to one or more pulleys not secured properly to the axis/axes. You can check this when your layers start to shift and notice the pulleys moving and consequently tighten the respective grub screws. Use a small Allen to tighten them.

Check the belts

checking belts- troubleshooting layer shift problems

Another important thing to check is the tension of the belts. You can adjust the belt position to ensure the tension is the same between all the belts. However, if the problem persists and if you’ve had your printer for a while then you should probably change the belts.

Fix stiff rods by oiling them

putting solutions for smooth printing process

Rods can get stiff and encounter resistance over time which affects the print and causes shifts in the layers. Ideally, the print head should move around easily without resistance. you can perform a simple check to test this.

Turn off the power and check the head by moving it manually in both X and Y direction. If the head moves around stiffly then its time to oil the rods with some light machine oil.

Check the alignment of the rods

Misalignment in rods is another reason that contributes to stiffness. Again perform a check by moving the head to the left/right side and consequently to the front/back of the printer. The distance between the sliding blocks and the pulleys should be equal on both sides. If the axes aren’t square you can fix this by loosening the screws on the two pulleys of one rod, adjust the sliding block and then re-tighten the screws.

Apart from this, check if your rods are bent by removing them and rolling them on a flat surface. You’ll instantly realize if they’re deformed or bent and can replace them.

Check for warped layers

Troubleshooting layer shift problems by remove wrapped layers

Warping takes place when there is uneven cooling between the layers which results in the edges rising up. If this happens, the print can release from the bed and this makes it much easier for the layers to shift. You can combat warping by adjusting the speed of the cooling fans but if the problem continues, check out our Troubleshooting Guide To Fix Warping.

Decrease the print speed

Many a time, the reason could simply be that your printer is printing too fast. A clicking sound heard during the print job indicates this and you should first check to see if the filament is slipping and if not, then proceed to reduce the print speed by going into your slicer settings.

I hope this troubleshooting layer shift problems that can be overcome by the article are useful and easy.

Credits: rosso3d.com, doubltjumpelectric.com, ultimaker.com, 3dprinting.stackexchange.com
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Your favorite memes can now be 3D printed! https://blog.geeetech.com/3d-printing-application/3d-printing-design/your-favorite-memes-can-now-be-3d-printed/ Mon, 12 Feb 2018 14:30:59 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=8776 Memes are everywhere! We love some, hate some and we’ve definitely considered 3d printing some as well. But for something as viral as memes, there aren’t many printing files available online. So if you’re a meme-lover like us and you’re looking to print(or buy) some cool memes then take a look below!

3D Print your own:

Thanks to 3D printing enthusiasts all over the world, we were able to find some interesting designs you can find on Thingiverse!

Ugandan Knuckles

Thanks to the world of VR chat, Ugandan Knuckles has become an internet sensation and we want our own! If you are still searching for da wae to print out this tiny figure then we have it here for you. Made by user ideawizard you can find the print files on Thingiverse here

Surprised Patrick

Thanks to designer Fargo3DPrinting, you can now print out Patrick and his iconic surprised face which went viral and led to some of the funniest memes! However, this gif remains our favorite:

You can find the design on Thingiverse, available here.

Deal with it Glasses

You may be cool but are you as cool as a doge wearing 8bit glasses? The famous “Deal With It” meme was so popular that people decided to design and print the glasses so that they too could wear it! And luckily, you can make your own pair to flaunt around thanks to designers on Thingiverse!

Created by Aubrey Ortiz, this design is easy to print and you can tweak the size a bit to adjust to the size of your head. Get it here.

Meme Faces

Your meme collection just isn’t complete without the famous meme faces that started off the whole meme trend in the first place. This troll face, for instance, created by Garrett Kearney is easy to print and you can follow the instructions here.

Buy your own:

If you can’t seem to find the STL files for your favorite meme or don’t have a 3D printer to make your own then Shapeways is the place for you. There are many more memes that you can find on Shapeways so if you’re looking to own a 3d printed version of your favorite meme then why not buy one? Here are some of the cool memes that you can find-

Doge 

We all want our very own doge and if you’re willing to spend $20 then you can buy this cool model here. The detailing and precision by Ryan Kittleson on this doge had us blown! Amaze!

Grumpy Cat

Grumpy cat hates everything. Except for this 3D print. Because it’s so cool! And you can get yours here for $25!

You can find all these memes and much more on Shapeways here. Happy printing! 

Credits- thingiverse.com, shapeways.com, giphy.com

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3D Print Your Own Raspberry Pi 3 Cases! https://blog.geeetech.com/3d-printing-application/3d-printing-design/3d-print-your-own-raspberry-pi-3-cases/ Fri, 09 Feb 2018 14:30:21 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=8678 You probably know what Raspberry Pi is but if not, don’t feel too left out! This cool looking circuit board is a microcomputer first developed for schools to make computer science and programming more fun and affordable.

Developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, these single-board computers can plug into a computer monitor or TV, and let you explore the world of computing and even lets you learn how to program in languages like Scratch and Python.

So if you own a Raspberry Pi and a 3D printer then why not just print your very own case? We promise you, these innovative designs will steal your heart! Take a look-

Raspberry Pi case with VESA mounts 

Not only does this case look really nice but its super efficient too. The design itself is easy to assemble and can be screwed together. Apart from this, there’s an access slot for Pi camera, VESA mounting tabs, and a rotary engine vent design. Created by brilliant designer 0110-M-P you can find the Thingiverse files here

Pacman case

Bring back the nostalgia of the good ol’ Pacman days with this funky Pi enclosure designed by Darren Furniss. The bright color itself is enough to liven up any workspace and you can easily mount your Raspberry Pi 3 within. Instructions and print files are available on MyMiniFactory here but don’t forget to use supports for the bottoms half!

Pi 3 Sleeve

We’re big fans of this simplistic Raspberry Pi sleeve designed by Walter Hsiao and you can print it out in any color you like. Initially designed for the Pi B+, it works well for the Pi 3 and even Pi 2. Just make sure to check the dimensions and tweak the setting wherever necessary. You can find the directions and print files for this case on Thingiverse here.

Thor’s Hammer

You could settle for an ordinary case OR you could get Thor’s legendary hammer to encase your precious Raspberry Pi! It may look fancy but this case is easy to print and the perfect piece for any Marvel fan. 

Another awesome design by Darren Furniss, get this print on MyMiniFactory here. You can even print out the stand on which the hammer rests to complete the look.

TARDIS Raspberry PI 3 case

Any Dr. Who fans? How about a classic TARDIS for your Rasberry Pi? Creator Jason MK2 isn’t just a 3d printing enthusiast but also a really cool dad to have designed this case for his son. You can customize the design and cut out holes wherever necessary so that USB cables and such can pass through. You’ll even find 4 holes in the rear which you can use for screwing the piece together. Available on Thingiverse check out his design here.

 SNES Mini

If you couldn’t get your hands on a SNES Mini, its fine. You can still print out this brilliantly designed case by Andrew Bougie. But what’s even cooler is installing a games emulator like RecalBox or RetroPie and playing all your favorite games like never before. The instructions and print files are all available on Thingiverse as well as a license to print and sell but don’t forget to credit the awesome creator! Find Andrew’s design here.

RPI3 2600 

Inspired by the Atari 2600 gaming console, creator Haunt Freaks made his very own Pi 3 enclosure complete with the original Atari logo! The accurate vintage design brings back sweet memories for many whose first console was the Atari 2600 and now you can print your very own!  The print files for this design are available on Thingiverse here.

Raspberry Pi Case

If you’re leaning towards something minimalistic then don’t miss this cool design by creator Walter Hsiao. A perfect fit for the Raspberry Pi 3, this case can be printed in two parts which snap together with no screws needed. And if you want to modify the print you can even add some vent holes in the bottom for airflow for cooling. Find this print on Thingiverse here.

Deathstar Pi 3 enclosure

Last but by no means the least, is this Star Wars inspired Deathstar enclosure created by Darren Furniss. The case itself is spacious enough to mount a fan within the upper dome so you won’t have to worry about it heating up. Apart from this, there are additional vents, an option for the Pi camera and a stand that compliments the design and prevents it from rolling around. Get this awesome print on MyMiniFactory here.

Looking for a 3d printer so that you can start your own 3d printing adventures? Why not take a look at our Store for some sweet deals?

Credits: thingiverse.com, myminifactory.com, grabcad.com

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Need a 3D print? These sites will print your design for you! https://blog.geeetech.com/3d-printing-application/3d-printing-design/need-a-3d-print-these-sites-will-print-your-design-for-you/ Mon, 05 Feb 2018 14:30:03 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=8609 Just because you don’t own a 3D printer doesn’t mean you can’t experience the joys of 3D printing! And if you’re wondering how then its high time we talk about 3D printing services and how cool they are!

Essentially, a 3D printing service or company will print your design for you and deliver it right to your doorstep.

All you need to do is upload your model design, STL files, scans or even physical items that you wish to be 3D printed. Apart from this, there are a variety of models available that you can choose from. Alternatively, if you’re looking to sell your designs then you can consider listing your services as well.

We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite 3D printing services that you absolutely must check out-

1. Shapeways

Technologies: SLS, SLA, Binder Jet Steel, Wax casting, Material Jetting

Materials: Plastic, Metal, Ceramics, Sandstone, Wax

One of the most popular 3d printing services, Shapeways is perfect for both 3d printing enthusiasts as well as newbies. You can either upload your STL files and custom designs or opt for their professionally designed items and customize them to your liking.

2. i.materialise

Technologies: FDM, SLS, SLA, Casting, CeramicJet, Colorjet, DMLS, Indirect Metal Printing, Polyjet

Materials:  Plastic, Metal, Ceramic, Wood, Resin, Sandstone

Similar to Shapeways, i.materialise lets you upload your designs and have them printed out for you. For designers, they can either sell their 3d print designs via the gallery on the i.materalise online store or embed them into their website.

3. 3D Hubs

Technologies: FDM, SLA, SLS, Jetting, Metal Sintering, Paper, PolyJetting, CFF, Wax Casting

Materials: Plastic, Metal, Paper, Resin, Stone, Wax

Rather than 3d printing your object for you, 3D Hubs lets you connect with professionals who own a 3d printer and will print your design. It’s even more convenient as you can find someone living in your area itself who offers 3d printing services, upload your STL files and instantly connect with them to get an estimate.

The company makes sure all transactions between the “hubs” and customers are performed properly. You can find these 3D Hubs all over the world mainly in Europe and the US but also in Australia, Asia, Africa, Russia, and South-America.

4. Sculpteo

Technologies: FDM, SLS, SLA, DMLS, Casting, CLIP, ColorJet

Materials:  Plastic, Metal, Ceramic, Resin, Full-color, Wax

Sculpteo offers a large variety of materials and 3D printing technologies to choose from. From art pieces to jewelry and interior decorations, you can find something that you love and even take it one step further and customize it. Like the other online sites, Sculpteo too offers hobbyists and professionals to open up an online storefront and sell where they can sell their designs.

When asked about his views on 3D printing, the founder of Sculpteo, Eric Carreel says “Soon, instead of buying things that are made in large quantities at factories, we will buy objects made in quantities of just one, specifically for us”. And if you take a look at Sculpteo, you’ll feel the same!

5. MakeXYZ

Technologies: FDM, SLS, SLA, Material Jetting

Materials: Plastic, Resin, Nylon

What sets MakeXYZ apart from other online services is that it offers you a handy little perk. You can either upload your files and have them printed or you can choose to allow an experienced Makexyz print manager handle the process for you. For newbies especially, this tool gives you a very smooth experience.

Apart from this, you can upload your files in a variety of formats like stl, obj, zip, step, stp, iges, igs, 3ds and wrl. The site also includes a “Find 3D Printers” list that includes the printer’s name, location, and his/her 3D print capabilities.

3D printing services are also a great way to test out 3d printed objects before buying your own 3d printer. And if you love the experience and can’t wait to buy your own then take a look at our Store.

Credits: imaterialise.com, makexyz.com, sculpteo.com, 3dhubs.com, shapeways.com

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We bet you didn’t know these 3D printed accessories even exist! https://blog.geeetech.com/3d-printing-application/3d-printing-design/we-bet-you-didnt-know-these-3d-printed-accessories-even-exist/ Wed, 31 Jan 2018 14:30:37 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=8539 The sky is the limit when it comes to creativity, and 3D printing is no exception to this. You may have a unique idea in your mind and if you can find the right tools then you can 3D print your design and share it with the world too. Today we’re going to take a look at some of the fun and quirky accessories designed by people all over the world!

Wearable Planter Jewelry

Love plants? You can now take your precious plants with you wherever you go thanks to these unique jewelry planters made by Colleen Jordan. The pendant itself is a miniature vase with holes through it which you can attach a cord. So simple yet so creative!  You can make your very own Vase pendant thanks to files available on Thingiverse here.

And if you’re looking for a pair of earrings to match then Colleen has you covered with these tiny beads that can be used as mini planters. Just print it out, add your plant and take your lil’ buddy with you on your adventures! Find these wearable planter beads here.

Neckties

While 3D printed clothing hasn’t taken over our closets yet, we’ll admit we’re pretty fascinated with the concept. And one thing we can’t wait to try are these 3d printed neckties that are quirky, cool and definitely a topic of conversation.

What’s so special about them? For starters, you don’t have to struggle with tying that tricky knot. All you need to do is slip them on. The tie itself is made from pieces of PLA linked together in such a way that they’re flexible but also very durable. Creator Boris Rabinovich even put them to the test by tossing them in the washing machine but they returned unscathed!

Tapestry Eyeglasses

3D Printing your eye-glasses are cool but how about taking making it a fun art project too?

Chloe McCormick and Nicholas O’Donnell-Hoare collaborated to create these cute and quirky eye-glasses which can be customized to suit your need! All you need are your favorite colors of yarn.

There are holes included in the frame of these eye-glasses so you can weave your own pattern using different colored yarn. A pair of glasses and a fun DIY project all in one, we really want to try these out.

Geometric Jewelry

As stunning as it looks, whats really impressive about 3D printed jewelry is you can print out these designs not only in PLA and ABS but also in metals which is really revolutionizing the way we look at jewelry.

Traditional gold and silver designs are now making way for geometric patterns that are minimalistic yet stunning to look at. In fact, they almost like jewelry of the future!

Bowties

If your friends and family didn’t know just how much you love 3d printing, then they definitely will once you turn up to an event wearing this. These intricate bow ties are much easier to wear than their traditional counterparts but we’re not complaining.

Since 3d printing is all about unleashing your creative ideas the possibilities are limitless. Check out Thingiverse for some quirky designs or buy one online. You can even sit down and design your very own design and flaunt your love for 3d printing!

Cufflinks

One of the most magical moments as a 3D printing enthusiast is when you realize you can 3D print literally ANYTHING onto the most mundane objects and breathe life into them all over again. And these Batman cufflinks are the perfect example. Luckily you can print your very own thanks to the files available on Thingiverse. Find them here

Credits: thingiverse.com, inhabitat.com, my23skidoo.wordpress.com, meltewerk.com

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This is the world’s first 3D Printed toilet made specially for India! https://blog.geeetech.com/news/this-is-the-worlds-first-3d-printed-toilet-made-specially-for-india/ Sat, 27 Jan 2018 14:30:54 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=8479 You’ve definitely heard of houses being 3D printed thanks to the latest concrete 3d printers that can even print a brand new house in 24 hours! But did you know that 3D printed toilets are soon to be a reality too?

It’s hard to believe that something as common as a toilet which is a necessity in our daily lives, is not so common in the lives of millions living in India. Many that do not have access to toilets even end up using public areas. Toilet scarcity is a national problem in India affecting more than half of India’s population and even resulting in deaths due to unhygienic conditions.

Luckily, Hamilton Labs, based in Singapore, is developing 3D printable toilets to help improve poor sanitary conditions in India. Using Hamilton’s robotic HamilBot Mark 1 3D printer, India is about to see a brand new change that could potentially save many lives and drastically improve the quality of life.

Scarcity of toilets in India

Being the second most populated country the world, India’s poor sanitation, and hygiene problems are definitely distressing. About 524 million people do not have access to local toilets, defecate in the open which further leads to diseases and deaths as the cycle goes on.

In order to change the current situation, the government has undertaken a pledge to make India an open defecation free country by 2019. But to make this dream a reality, construction of over 100 million toilets across the nation need to be funded. And though, around 60 million new toilets have been built, 40 million more are still needed.

The main reason why there aren’t sufficient toilets is that these regions are severely lacking in trained craftsmen who can construct the required toilets as well as low funding. Since Hamilton’s 3D printed toilets are much more affordable, India could see a big change.

Hamilton Labs lends a helping hand

Having signed an agreement with India’s Center for Rural Information and Action (CRIA) Hamilton plans to use one of its robotic 3D printing systems to build 3D printed concrete toilets in Bihar, Northern and Eastern India. Known as the HamilBot Mark 1, this robotic 3D printer will be used to build toilets that are comfortable, quick to print and beautiful to look at.

 

Working with Singapore’s National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC), a collaborative 3D printing scheme organized by Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the National University of Singapore (NUS), and the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), Singapore’s Hamilton Labs could be about to contribute massively to India’s sanitary project.

The 3D Printed Toilets

If you’re wondering what these 3D printed toilets will be made from- it’s definitely not your average PLA and ABS. A special cement made from recycled fly ash, which is a product of coal combustion will be used. This fly ash is abundantly available in countries that use coal-fired power plants like India.

Hamilton’s HamilBot Mark 1 3D printer which is powered by a robotic arm, is a large-scale 3D printer. Take a look at the printer in action:

HamilBot Mark 1 is capable of working 24/7 with theoretically minimal manual input. That cuts down not only cost but also the timing to construct these toilets, were it to be done by manual labour! The project to build these toilets in India is expected to start soon, with the robotic cement 3D printer expected to arrive at its destination later this month!

Its awe-inspiring to see such advancements in the 3D printing industry adnd we’re so ecited to see what’s in store for the future. Could there be a day where every single thing around is 3dprinted?? Well we’ll have to wait and see to find out!

Credits: 3ders.org, youtube.com

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3D printing in an Eco-friendly way…Now isn’t that cool? https://blog.geeetech.com/3d-printing-application/3d-printing-design/3d-printing-in-an-eco-friendly-way-now-isnt-that-cool/ Tue, 23 Jan 2018 14:30:58 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=8357 3D Printing isn’t exactly harmful, but just like any other industry, there are a lot of waste products and emissions from 3D Printing that impacts our environment. As people are now realizing the effects of their carbon footprints we can take a few steps to ensure that taking the greenest way out!

As a 3D printing community, there are a few small steps all of us can take to make 3D printing as sustainable and eco-friendly as possible. You won’t regret it!

1) Recycle your filament at home!

Many times you’ll find yourself wishing you could recycle your failed prints, or other waste ABS material. And guess what? You absolutely can! ABS may not be biodegradable but it can definitely be recycled and investing in a good recycler is not only better for your print but good for the planet too.

A filament recycler grinds up your old print or household plastic and turns it into filament that can be used for new prints. And since ABS is a thermoplastic, it makes for the perfect filament which you can re-use even after being heated before. So why keep spending on filament when you can just recycle your failed prints and waste plastic?

There are many different filament grinders and extruders available as well as machines that do both like the Protocycler. If you’re looking for something more on the budget then buy the shredders and extruders separately- Filabot, Recyclebot, and Shred-Buddy are some cool examples to check out!

It’s important to remember that you shouldn’t mix different types of filament while recycling as it can result in low print quality.

2) Opt for bio-degradable and eco-friendly filaments

Though PLA is bio-degradable, it still contains many chemicals that aren’t good for the soil. A better alternative would be opting for more sustainable filaments that are readily available online. And no these filaments aren’t made from your basic materials. Did you know there are eco-friendly filaments made of coffee, bamboo, and even beer?

Not a lot of people are aware that these filaments even exist. To know more, read our blog post about these mind-blowing eco-friendly filaments. Apart from them, another note-worthy filament is the Willow Flex compostable by both EU and USA compostability standards.

3. Use Dissolvable Supports like PVA

Supports are great for holding your prints up but did you know that most of the 3D printing waste comes from thrown away support materials? We know its impossible to stop using supports, especially with prints that contain overhangs but how about using other materials?

Opt for a water-soluble PVA filament for your supports which not only dissolve completely when exposed to water but will also avoid excess waste. Apart from that, it’s much easier than manually breaking off supports and you get a clean print-surface too!

You will, however, need a dual extrusion printer for using the PVA supports. Another great material is HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) which dissolves in Limonene solution.

4) Combine your leftover filament to make something out-of-the-box

An amazing tool for combining leftover or broken off filament strings is EasyWelder. It’s typically a welder for filaments and by placing the ends of the two filaments within the clamp, you press down and voila- a new filament is born.

 

You can join two filaments of a different color to make a hybrid filament that, when printed, results in a multicolor object.

Though the EasyWelder isn’t very expensive, there is another way to do this. Just keep feeding extra filament into your printer continuously to create a multi-colored model.  The cons of this method are you can’t pause the printer and it’s important to use the same type of filament and same print settings.

5) Build an enclosure for your 3D printer

Let’s be honest, a very small percentage of us actually use an enclosure for our 3D Printers. Although the fumes released during 3D printing won’t kill you- they’re definitely not great for your health.

And since many of us use our 3D printers straight from our very homes, becomes even more important to keep our environment safe and fume-free. Hence enclosures are a great way to print without worrying about inhaling these fumes or leaking them into the air. Check out Robert Sojak’s easy guide on how to make your very own enclosure.

All in all, something as small as changing your filament or recycling your old filament can have a big impact on our environment, especially since the 3D printing community is so vast and ever-growing. Let’s help make some good changes!

Credits- etsy.com, robertsojak.com, ultimaker.com, redetec.com

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Top 10 3D Printed Ideas Perfect For All Rick And Morty Fans! https://blog.geeetech.com/3d-printing-application/3d-printing-design/top-10-3d-printed-ideas-perfect-for-all-rick-and-morty-fans/ Sat, 20 Jan 2018 14:30:46 +0000 http://www.geeetech.com/blog/?p=8324 One of the best joys of 3D Printing is creating all your favorite T.V characters right at home and sharing your creations with the 3D printing community! You can even go one step further and customise your characters as you like since 3D printing has no limits when it comes to creativity.

As lovers of the famous Rick and Morty show, we began our search to find the Top 10 3D printables that you just can’t skip out on if you’re a diehard fan. The wait for Season 4 of Rick and Morty is going to be a long one so why not make the most of the time and print these awesome designs? Take a look-

Rick Sanchez Mask

You simply can’t get Schwifty without Rick Sanchez but since we can’t have the real thing, we 3D printed his mask instead. Designed by easyused, this mask is perfect for cosplay, Halloween or simply as a decoration that everyone will be talking about. You’ll have to individually print and assemble the parts but we promise it’s well worth it! Find it here.

Portal Gun

Want to travel to infinite realities and dimensions? Then you’ll have to print Rick’s Portal gun to get going! This 3D printed portal gun even lights up green so it almost feels like you’ll be stepping on a crazy new planet soon. You can find all the printing instructions as well as directions to make it light up, here, thanks to creator Intentional3D.

Figurines

Flaunt your love for the most iconic duo by 3D printing them so they’ll always be by your side. Designed by ChaosCoreTech, these figurines are intricately detailed and you’ll need to paint and assemble them carefully. However once finished, they sure do look like a masterpiece.

Mr. Meeseeks and Meeseeks Box 

We were first introduced to Mr. Meeseeks in the episode “Meeseeks and Destroy” and these chirpy blue creatures definitely stole our hearts (even when they went a bit cray-cray.)

And though we may not have the famous Meeseeks box out of which they appear, we can definitely print both. Make your very own  Mr. Meeseeks as well as Meeseeks Box that even lights up!

Pickle Rick

It’s Pickle Rickkkkkk! No Rick and Morty list would be complete without our favorite Pickle Rick and if you’re still wondering why Rick is a pickle then go watch the series right now because you’re missing out on some amazing stuff.

Designed by MosaicManufacturing the detailing on this print really makes us feel as though we’re holding Rick in our very hands. Available on Thingiverse you can get the print instructions here.

Pass the Butter Robot

Why opt for a regular robot when you can print one with an existential crisis? We first saw Rick create this sentient robot with the sole purpose of passing butter but he soon began to question what his purpose in life was. We can relate!

The 3D printer version looks just as cute and though it won’t pass the butter, you can use it as a handy pen stand maybe? Designed by ljblk you can find it here.

Rick’s Laser Gun

It’s dangerous to embark upon your crazy adventures without the handy laser gun! Use it to blast away at enemies or simply mount it as a decoration, whichever you prefer. You can print the parts in different colors or paint them and assemble it all together. Get the STL files and instructions here.

Mr. Poopy Butthole

OOOhh weee! Now you can print your own Mr. Poopy Butthole but please don’t shoot him! First printed by The 3D Printing Guy, you can find the STL files here and make your own peppy friend to motivate you from your work desk!

Rick and Morty Logo

Nothing screams “I love this TV Show” more than 3D printing its logo and that’s exactly what we plan on doing! Easy to print, you can find the design here and get painting!

Council of Ricks Badge

As you know, the Council of Ricks is a special society of Ricks that was formed maintain the order of the universe and prevent rogue Ricks from doing any serious harm. Not everyone can be Rick Sanchez but we can sure print out this nifty Council of Ricks badge and be a part of the Council too. This design is a remix of the original and even has a magnetic back. Check it out here.

Don’t have a 3D Printer yet? Check out our Store for some cool options!

Credits: thingiverse.com, 3dprint.com

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