We’re always looking for new sources of 3D models to print, and we found another potential source: microscopic imaging. Scientists at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Farm Research Campus are using a special microscopic high-speed imaging (e.g. video) system to capture moving images of teeny things in action, like a single cell dividing, for instance. We think data from these experiments could likely be converted into very cool 3D models suitable for printing. Who knew that the surface of cells could be so unusual? We would if we had printed out models of them. Imagine printing versions of a cell as it goes through its lifecycle.
Bringing the microscopic into the macroscopic world should be one of the common uses of 3D printing – if only the models were a bit more available.
Via Kurzweil
