3D print your own triply periodic minimal surface

Oct. 15, 2009
A really neat site lets you 3D print your own models up to 19 x 15 x 7-in. in size. It seems you can create anything from living hinges and bracelets to so-called "lightsculptures." Materials include polycarbonate, acrylic-based polymer, nylon, ABS ...

A really neat site lets you 3D print your own models up to 19 x 15 x 7-in. in size. It seems you can create anything from living hinges and bracelets to so-called "lightsculptures." Materials include polycarbonate, acrylic-based polymer, nylon, ABS plastic, and stainless steel infused with bronze. You can use the site's tools or upload your own design file. Here is an example of "Bathsheba's" triply periodic minimal surface. When asked how she made the design, she says, "I used Mathematica, then Surface Evolver, then Perl, then Rhinoceros. It's a great surface — Alan Schoen discovered it in the 60's.

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