A new form of 3D model repository has emerged: Iteration3D.
We’re all familiar with the typical 3D model repositories, such as MakerWorld, Printables, Thingiverse, etc. All of these operate on a simple principle: someone designs a 3D model and uploads it. If you like a 3D model on the site, you download it.
A very few 3D models have customization features. These are typically parametric OpenSCAD files where the interface allows you to tweak some parameters. For example, you might make the diameter of the hole 45mm instead of 55mm.
In spite of all of these 3D models sites adding literally millions of files, it is still often very difficult to find exactly what you need. While more 3D models uploaded means there is a higher likelihood of finding the desired model, it also makes search far more difficult.
I used to do the “vase test”, where I’d search one of the sites for a “vase” and see how many results appeared. Now you can’t even do that test anymore, due to endless scrolling, maximum display page limits, and obscured search results. Search is extremely difficult these days.
A solution might be emerging in a new tool developed in France by Sylvain Judeaux. Iteration3D takes a different approach to storing and creating 3D models.
Hold on, “creating” 3D models? Aren’t we talking about a 3D model site?
We are, but Iteration3D does things a bit differently. The 3D models stored on the site are actually templates for objects. Each model has a set of parameters available, such as length, diameter of a hole, etc., and you can specify exactly what you need.
Here’s the interesting part: if you specify a set of parameters in a template, Iteration3D will first search for that model with those specific parameters. If it doesn’t find one, it automatically generates one! The generated file can be downloaded and used as normal.
Generated files are kept and later used in subsequent searches. Your new version of the 3D model might be downloaded later by someone else. This saves on the resources required to generate the 3D model.
What they’ve built is a site that “grows” by generating new iterations of 3D designs as users request them.
This means that, for example, you need only ONE 3D model of an O-ring. That template can be used to generate any conceivable O-ring by setting parameters.
The site says:
“More than just a file dump”
And they are correct.
At this time, the site indicates there are over 700 generated 3D models, and it appears there are at least 30 templates. Example models include “round air grill”, “enclosure”, “tube adapter”, “pipe elbow”, “box with lid”, etc.
My suspicion is that this paradigm would best be used for mechanical parts that require specific dimensions. Organically shaped sculptures and artistic pieces might benefit less.
There doesn’t seem to be much information on how to create these templates, but it’s likely they are OpenSCAD files under the covers. Perhaps at some point, the site will allow others to upload their own templates.
I like this concept, but the site faces stiff competition from the big players, all of whom are vastly subsidized and controlled by 3D printer manufacturers.
If you’re in need of certain parametric parts you can’t find elsewhere, it’s possible that Iteration3D might be able to help.
Via Iteration3D
