If I understand this correctly, the Touch project (thanks again the Make blog) from the Oslo School of Architecture and Design is using the unique data from an RFID device to determine the unique form of the object that contains the device. It uses the RFID data, along with user configurable parameters to determine the design of a 3D object that can then be 3D printed.

Each object in the project has a visual appearance and shape that is generated uniquely for each user. This reflects the unique identity contained in the RFID chip.

They’re designed to be artifacts for schoolkids (K-12) that slowly gather informational histories as the kids interact with each other and grow. It’s part of a larger project about turning a school and its artifacts into its own yearbook while also encouraging the development of criticality through annotation.

Certainly a novel approach to 3D design, and it has the possibility to create interesting new ways of thinking about the implications of RFID.

Here’s an interesting concept that is slowly spreading across the Sates: A TechShop is:

…a fully-equipped open-access workshop and creative environment that lets you drop in any time and work on your own projects at your own pace. It is like a health club with tools and equipment instead of exercise equipment…
Anyone can come in and build and make all kinds of things themselves using the TechShop tools, machines and equipment, and draw on the TechShop instructors and experts to help them with their projects.
TechShop is designed for everyone, regardless of their skill level. TechShop is perfect for inventors, “makers”, hackers, tinkerers, artists, roboteers, families, entrepreneurs, youth groups, FIRST robotic teams, arts and crafts enthusiasts, and anyone else who wants to be able to make things that they dream up but don’t have the tools, space or skills.

The concept seem similar to a Fab Lab, only run on a commercial, membership basis.

As I’ve suggested in the past in relation to Fab Labs, the TechShop idea seems to me one that a school could adopt as a way of making its D&T facilities available to its local community.

Could be an idea of particular interest to Technology and Engineering colleges?

The February 2008 newsletter from Desktop Factory brings news of delays in the full launch of their printer. These appear to be mainly caused by teething problems brought to light by a rigorous beta testing regime. However one point they make is rather interesting:

We have found something that was somewhat counter-intuitive, at least to us. Our most recent data suggests that a low-priced 3D printer will need to exhibit a greater level of reliability than the current, more expensive offerings. Hopefully at least some of you are thinking - What? Why is that? Well, the number one reason given is that many of our users may be new to 3D printing and will not necessarily have the skills or a dedicated operator to insure the system performs at the highest possible level. We have also been told that the reliability expectation may be analogous to desktop publishing, where the 2D printer actually was more reliable than the costly copier that it began to replace.

As result it will be the 3rd quarter of 2008 before they are likely to ship.

Torben

Interesting photosory from Technology Review: The Building, Digitally Remastered showcases some buildings that couldn’t possibly have been built without the help of powerful CAD, new materials and novel building methods.

Shown here, the Phaeno Science Center in Wolfsburg, Germany, supported on hollow cones that contain the buiding’s bookstore, a theater and the entrance.

Torben