Research Performed in Cornell’s Creative Machines Lab under Dr. Hod Lipson
What is the [email protected], and What makes it Different?
Here’s one thing that makes it different: The [email protected] prints food. Seriously. We’ve printed corn, turkey paste, cookies, chocolate, cheese, and more! I developed control electronics for both the MakerBot and [email protected] 3D printers. While the MakerBot focused on bringing precise plastic extrusion possible to the public, the [email protected] focused on using additive manufacturing as a teaching tool and to print unique new materials. In addition to food, the [email protected] has printed ice, metal, and even replacement bone.
What did I do on the [email protected] Project?
Similar to my experience on the MakerBot, I also worked on [email protected] electronics. More specifically, I led the Electrical Team in our objective to modularize the system architecture for the 3rd generation of the printer. This involved rethinking the communication between various control boards and toolheads, and consolidating the electronics where possible. Because the [email protected] can accept multiple toolheads for various applications (such as plastic extrusion, milling, plotting, and more), it’s necessary to develop an easy way for end-users to change toolheads with minimal reconfiguration. I focused on developing a new power distribution and safety system that makes deploying the [email protected] in schools practical and safe.
Watch an Interview I did with the local news about the [email protected], and see it print:
EDIT: Unfortunately, this episode is no longer available online. Consider watching my TEDx talk about Open Source Society and 3D Printers, instead!