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Anonymous Coward |
Smooth models |
Autodesk claim that the process will produce smooth surfaces rather than the rougher stepping of most 3D extrusion processes. They liken their design propagation intention to producing an "Android" of the 3D printing world. |
The BBC has a longer article and pictures of what appear to be objects produced by the process. |
1. Suricou Raven |
Re: Smooth models |
Stereolithographic printers do indeed have those advantages. Smoother, higher detail, better able to handle overhangs. |
They do have two disadvantages, though. The printers are more expensive ($5000 is actually amazingly cheap) and they require feeding with a quite exotic chemical concoction - a goo which is not only expensive to make, but has a shelf life. Extrusion printers, the more common type, just need PLA or ABS plastic - c... |
1. Dave 126 Silver badge |
Re: Smooth models |
Current workflow: |
Create CAD model |
Convert CAD model into a mesh defined by thousands of triangles (*.STL) |
Take STL into 'slicing' software, that has had machine-specific variables (material, print temp, bed temp, bed size etc) loaded into it: |
- analyse overhangs and create support structures if need, either 'break away' or using a second extruding head |
- slice the mesh and added structures into hundreds of 2D slices |
- create G Code that controls the movement of the print axes, lots of factors here including print temperature and speed. |
Put G-code into a software 'print simulator', to make sure the slicing software hasn't got confused. |
Load G Code onto the 3D printer. |
Calibrate printer |
Spot an issue, fine tune some of the above variables, repeat steps as required. |
Print again. |
Cross fingers, go to pub for a couple of hours. |
There is certainly room for improvement. There is no real reason why the intermediary STL format is required, when my instincts tell me the 2D slices or the actual G-code could be generated directly from the original 3D CAD model, with greater respect for the 'design intent'. The GCode format itself isn't perfe... |
Really, systems are getting smarter. There is no reason a depth aware system akin to MS Kinect couldn't be used to provide real-time feed-back to the control system to compensate for any physical variation in the print process (belt tightness, ambiant temperature, variation in material composition). I'm not sur... |
AutoDesk's products, like those from their competitors, already have simulation plugins and the like... there is no technical reason one should have to leave one's familiar CAD interface in order to print the object. |
5. Steve Todd |
Some of the key patents for SLA printing expire this year |
So it's not surprising that a company like Autodesk (who are already involved in 3D printing with their software) should show an interest. There are two issue that I see though. Firstly $5000 is a bit steep for this type of printer (you can already find cheaper) and secondly the much superior SLS (laser sintering) ... |
6. Anonymous Coward |
Anonymous Coward |
That 3D printer... |
...looks like an Espresso machine to me. :( |
1. Stoneshop Silver badge |
Re: That 3D printer... |
So, you could print your very personalised cup first, then it pours coffee into it? I can see the hipster coffee bars falling over themselves to get their hands on such a device. |
1. Anonymous Coward |
Anonymous Coward |
Re: That 3D printer... |
or a personalised beer glass for a sunny Friday afternoon |
7. The BigYin |
Pull the other one |
This topic is closed for new posts. |
Biting the hand that feeds IT © 1998–2019 |
We put together a helpful list of common questions people have when preparing for their travel experience of a lifetime… |
Note: If you are traveling with a group package, many of these issues do not apply, since they are taken care of by Living Kraków. |
Q: Is Kraków safe? |
A: Kraków is a beautiful university and cultural center that was not destroyed during the War. It’s center dates back to the 13th Century. It is a place where you can walk safely at night or day. There is some danger of pickpockets, but normal precautions are sufficient. ATM’s are everywhere, so you need carry very lit... |
Q: Do I have to speak Polish? |
A: You will have little or no trouble speaking only English in Kraków. There are university students everywhere and they all speak excellent English. Not only that, but they will go out of their way to help you. However, if you really want the warmest welcome, learn to speak some Polish. Just try, and they will treat y... |
Q: Cash, Credit Cards? Traveler’s checks? |
A: In the past I advised travelers to use ATM or Bankomat to change $USD to Polish money. This may no longer be the best solution because of new charges. Since this is an ever changing situation email me at mike@livingkrakow.com for current information. |
We don’t recommend travelers checks. |
Q: What if I need medical care? |
A: Even though you have medical insurance, do obtain a Traveler’s Medical plan that will pay local hospitals and doctors, then seek reimbursement from your US plan. These are cheap considering the Peace of Mind. Look on the US State Department website for contact. You should also consider a plan with a Medical Evacuati... |
Q: How much does it cost? (for service? per day?) if I travel independently. |
A: The largest part of your daily expense is typically Accommodations. Since you have many options with Living Travels (Our independent and small group travel option), you have control over this aspect. Contrast with a prestructured tour, where you have a charge based on double occupancy. One size fits all. If you are ... |
You will have a dependable budget when you complete the Living Travels planning process, a budget tailored for you. |
It should be noted, though, that value remains one of the significant benefits in traveling to Poland as compared with Western Europe. Prices are still substantially lower. This window will close in just a few years, as Poland becomes a full member of the European Union. I lived like a king in Poland last summer for le... |
Q: How will I get around? |
A: You can walk to 19 Catholic Churches or 300 underground clubs and restaurants in 10-15 minutes from a typical apartment adjacent to the Old City. Trams are fun and cheap. If you want a day trip, we can arrange it. Trains are great for trips between cities in Poland and very CHEAP. There is no need to rent a car in t... |
Q: What are the major sites? |
A: Because this is a highly individual perception, our Living Travels interview process is intended to identify the sites most relevant to your interests. This is not one size fits all travel planning. However, the emphasis is on cultural and/or spiritual discovery. |
Q: What is the weather like? |
A: The climate is very similar to Chicago, but without the winds. |
Q: What should I bring? |
A: Part of Living Kraków custom planning is a packing checklist. Travel light. Group pilgrims are provided with a free jacket appropriate for the season, hooded, water resistant, lined in cool weather season, also with it’s pockets, becomes an extra carry on bag during flights. |
Q: Can I call home? |
A: Check with you provider. My plan has an overnight rider for no extra base charge, no data charge and only 20 cents a minute for voice. Each provider has numerous plans, so shop. Another option is an old phone and purchase a prepaid SIM card for $15 in Kraków, probably all the minutes you’ll need. Internet is availab... |
Q: What Internet services are available? |
A: There is a free wi-fi in the city square, just sit by a fountain or at an outdoor café and login. Many businesses also provide free wi-fi. If you are traveling without a laptop, there are Internet cafes all around the city at reasonable rates. Your hotel, B&B or apartment will probably offer free Wi-Fi. All hotels u... |
Q: What about special diets? |
A: There are some very outstanding vegetarian restaurants in Kraków. One, with multiple locations, is called Vega and features a buffet format at very reasonable prices. Vegetables served in Poland are still grown at local farms, without pesticides or chemical fertilizers. If you are too young to know the difference, y... |
As a diabetic, I had no trouble accommodating my personal diet requirements. |
Q: What about Cuisine Choices? Is it all meat and potatoes? |
A: Kraków is a Cultural Center, a favorite holiday spot for travelers from all of Europe. As such it has attracted the best chefs from many countries and an amazing variety of cuisine is available. |
But, for lunch, I like the milk bars, the cheap eating-places favored by locals. Food is displayed in a glass case. You choose, and then include a glass of wonderful Zywiec Beer (piwo in Polish). You will need a big appetite to spend more than $5. Then, for a real fine experience, look around the room, choose a friendl... |
Kraków is noted to be one of the finest dining venues in Europe by various rating services. (Even McDonald’s is better here, no additives in the beef or fries.) |
Q: Can I travel with my kids? |
A: You will build cherished family memories. By avoiding a typical tour, you can share an apartment instead and save considerable money. Poland is a Catholic country and children are loved. Most group pilgrimages include a limited number of family rooms and special rates for maturity appropriate kids and itinerary flex... |
Q: Are there any group or family discounts? |
A: Savings, realized by planning for a family or a group, are passed on to you. we do not accept “referral commissions” as is common in the Travel industry; instead negotiate discounts for you. |
Q: What are my lodging options? |
A: There is an unlimited range of options depending on your preferences and physical limitations and your budget. Hotels from Budget to 5-star, Board and Breakfast or pension, apartment; all are available. Perhaps even accommodation with a family in a private home can be arranged, especially if you can speak a little b... |
Q: Is it easy to find a Sunday Mass? |
A: There will be a Catholic Church within a short distance no matter where you are staying in Kraków. You will be comfortable because, even though celebrated in Polish, it is Vatican II liturgy and you will know what is going on. You will notice the reverence of the congregants. The Church will be full. One difference,... |
Q: Is it easy to make friends with local people? |
A: Polish people tend to be reserved, but as soon as they feel they can trust you, they will fall all over themselves to make you feel welcome. I have found the best way to show respect is to try to speak a few words in Polish. It is their country, their native language, put yourself in their place. You don’t have to s... |
Polish families I have met in local restaurants or similar settings have invited me to their homes on numerous occasions. I have stayed with local families met in this way in six different Polish cities in the last several years. In general, Poles love Americans, our value of freedom. They don’t like our visa laws whic... |
Q: Is it safe for a woman to travel? |
A: Because it is a university town, Kraków is one of the safer destinations for women traveling alone. Of course, take normal precautions and select accommodations at or near the old city or the university. By the way, Jagelonian University, the most prestigious, dates to the 13th century and its alums include Copernic... |
If your employer isn't giving you enough of a mileage allowance, you could be due a HMRC tax rebate on your travel. RIFT tax refunds are the UK's leading experts at getting your cash back from the taxman. Check our tax refund calculator to see what you could claim. Alternatively, get your mileage rebate rolling by a... |
Start for free |
Washington names new ambassador to Russia |
The U.S. Senate has confirmed John Beyrle as the new American ambassador to Russia. He will replace William Burns, who was recently appointed U.S. undersecretary for political affairs. |
Fifty-four-year-old Beyrle is a career diplomat who has served in Moscow twice before. He completed a two-year stint as deputy chief of mission. |
His most recent posting was as American ambassador to Bulgaria. |
Fair and Free |
Most World Assembly Endorsements: 1,413th Most Influential: 5,619th Largest Soda Pop Sector: 7,265th |
The Democratic Republic of |
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