Top 5 Videos: NASA Integrates A.I With 3D Printing to Design Space Parts
Today is Sunday, meaning it is time for the week’s top 5 3D printing videos! First up, don’t miss this video on NBC discussing the Artemis II moon launch, which will see humans on the moon for the first time since 1969 which also delves into how NASA integrates AI to design 3D printed parts for space! Next, a blueprint of the world’s largest underwater coral reef structure which will be 3D printed using ceramic materials. Next, we kick off the holiday spirit with an behind-the-scenes tutorial to help you create an Easter egg gift decoration. Two guides will help you learn everything about Greyscale resin, and how to design for 3D printing. Happy Sunday! And, as always: Happy watching!
Top 1: NASA Engineers employ A.I. for Space Parts Design
Three Americans and one Canadian are set to land on the moon for the first time since 1969 as part of NASA’s Artemis II mission that blasts off on November 2024. However, a surprise combination of Artificial Intelligence and 3D printing has allowed NASA’s engineering team to accelerate the design process, improve the reliability and performance of space parts, and ultimately advance our ability to explore and understand the universe. An AI system that analyzes large quantities of data from rocket engines in the past can predict which designs will succeed. This allows engineers and scientists to focus their efforts on the most promising designs. “As engineers, we like to think that we’re designing the best possible part, but with this toolset, we can validate that we actually are”, Ryan McClelland is NASA’s materials engineer. NASA’s materials engineer Ryan McClelland said that 3D printing allows physical models of AI-generated designs to be quickly printed and tested for function, fit, and form. Rapid prototyping allows engineers to quickly identify design flaws and improve their designs more efficiently and cost-effectively. The integration of AI and 3D printing in NASA’s space mission design process represents a significant leap forward in space exploration technology – we can expect even greater future advancements as AI and 3D printing continue to evolve.
Top 2: Leviathan 3D-Printed Ceramic Reef
Our second pick is a fascinating video showcasing a concept piece of the world’s largest 3D printed ceramic structure, the Leviathan Ceramic Reef, an underwater artificial 3D printed reef designed to promote marine life growth. This project is part a larger exhibition that demonstrates how to build a complete reef out of ceramics. The Eretz Museum in Israel hosts the project as part of its design biennale. The creation of large-scale structures like the Leviathan Reef is an example of how 3D printing has changed the way we think about objects and how they are created. The process involved printing individual ceramic modules, which are then assembled into the final structure. This project has a lot to do with the scale and potential of 3D printing. 3D printing can create complex shapes and forms that open up new avenues for engineering, architecture, art, and design. The Leviathan Reef shows the power of technology and design in combining them.
Top 3: 3D printed Easter egg gift decoration
For our third favorite video of the week, we’re bringing an Easter-inspired addition to the table! Brithawkes’ Easter egg decoration is 3D printed and can be personalized. The design features intricate patterns and shapes that are reminiscent of traditional Easter egg designs – except they’re fully 3D printed! The egg was created with a high-resolution 3D printer that allows for precise printing of intricate details. The entire printing process from the initial design phase through to the final product is shown. This demonstrates the potential of 3D printing technology for creating custom-made objects. This Easter egg decoration shows how 3D printing can be used for personalized gifts. Watch the video tutorial to get into Easter spirit.
Top 4: Formlabs Materials Explained: Greyscale Resins
Next up, take a look at Formlab’s brief-yet-informative explanation of everything you need to know about Greyscale Resins. The material’s characteristics, post-processing steps, and the many uses that Greyscale Resins can be used for when printing on Formlabs SLA3D printers are all covered. The material comes with a matte, opaque, and finely detailed surface that is ready to use right out the printer. This makes Black and White Resins both visually striking and attractive. Because of their neutral undertone, they are a great base for items that will be later painted or subject to other finishing processes. To get further insight from the system’s principal developers on how it functions and was created, check out the video below:
Top 5: Design for Mass Production 3D Printers: Electrical Enclosures
For our last video in the Top 5 of the week, check out Slant 3D’s most recent beginner’s guide to designing 3D printed components and learn how to create a unique electrical enclosure that will be 3D printed! The following outlines all of the necessary details and design considerations for creating an ESD-safe, 3D-printed electronics enclosure. The guide will show you how to use standoffs and camfers to ensure a high-quality result.
What do you think about the integration of AI and 3D printing in order to create space parts Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.