Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have developed a 3D printer that produces intricate glass designs with the push of a button.
The machine uses molten glass as its “ink,” contained in a “kiln cartridge” that heats up at 1,900 degrees until it is molten and pliable, Fast Company reports. “In a lower chamber, the glass is softened through a heat treatment process called annealing and funneled through an alumina-zircon-silica nozzle,” the article says.
Mediated Matter is the MIT research group responsible for the invention, which has been used to create glass vases and prisms.
Here are some screenshots of the device. You can learn more and watch the video at Fast Company.
Related Stories
Designers | Jan 13, 2017
The mind’s eye: Five thoughts on cognitive neuroscience and designing spaces
Measuring how the human mind responds to buildings could improve design.
Architects | Oct 11, 2016
A good imagination and a pile of junk: How maker culture is influencing the way AEC firms solve problems
“Fail” is no longer a dirty four-letter word: for maker culture, it has become a crucial stop along the way
Building Technology | Oct 7, 2016
How much is that LEED point worth? A new tool provides answers
Autocase analyzes the financial, social, and environmental benefits of certification.
Sponsored | BIM and Information Technology | Oct 3, 2016
A laser scanning solution for challenging topographic surveys
DeWalt Corporation, which has completed thousands of surveys over the last 50 years, began using 3D laser scanning technology nearly five years ago.
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 15, 2016
8 tips for perfecting co-location
Experts share tips and tricks for maximizing cross-team collaboration.
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 12, 2016
Draft of 2016 version of the LOD Specification has been released for public comment
The comment period is open until Sept. 23.
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 7, 2016
Energy Star Portfolio Manager tool updated to factor in waste management
The costs and benefits of managing 29 types of waste are now included.
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 30, 2016
BIM GIANTS: A ranking of the nation's top BIM design and construction firms
HOK, Perkins+Will, Turner Construction Co., The Whiting-Turner Contracting Co., Jacobs, and Thornton Tomasetti top Building Design+Construction’s annual ranking of the nation’s largest BIM AEC firms, as reported in the 2016 Giants 300 Report.
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 30, 2016
New service from CBRE provides deeper insights into in-building wireless network experiences
With dependable cellular and Wi-Fi coverage a must-have amenity for today’s businesses, CBRE to certify in-building network quality through new Cellular Signal Mapping service
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 22, 2016
The wicked problem of interoperability
Building professionals are often put in a situation where solving problems with the ‘best tool for the job’ comes at the cost of not being able to fully leverage data downstream without limitation, writes Proving Ground's Nathan Miller.
