The Smithsonian is using 3D printing and scanning to increase access to its ...

 

 

Sent to you by nunok via Google Reader:

 

 

The Smithsonian is using 3D printing and scanning to increase access to its collection

via Ponoko - Blog by Taylor Gilbert on 2/27/12

Two people, a 3D scanner, and 137 million objects.

The Smithsonian Institution has recently begun using 3D scanning and 3D printing to digitize and, in some cases, reproduce objects in their collection.

At any given moment, only about 2% of the Smithsonian's archive of 137 million objects are available to the public. Adam Metallo and Vince Rossi, the 3D digitization coordinators, are trying to make more of those objects available to more people using digital fabrication.

Some of the objects remain exclusively in digital form, while others are 3D printed as full-size replicas. The statue of Thomas Jefferson shown in the images was painted bronze and carefully finished until it looks nearly indistinguishable from the original.

Continue past the jump for more images of the process.

Via CNET

Posted in 3D Printing, Taylor Gilbert by Taylor Gilbert | No Comments

 

 

Things you can do from here:

• Subscribe to Ponoko - Blog using Google Reader
• Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites