3D Printing People at the Science Museum

The London Science Museum will display 150 3D printed miniature models of visitors in its new exhibition, 3D: Printing the Future. Produced using a number of Stratasys FDM 3D printers, the small figurines will be on display October 9th 2013 – February 10th 2014. Printed in ABS by Stratasys UK distributor Laser Lines Ltd, the exhibition will explore the process of 3D printing, from 3D scanning right through to the production of 3D models. The 150 statuettes were created from the scans of a selection of visitors who took part in the 3D scanning workshops run at the Museum by Digital Native Academy throughout August.

The DNA team provided Laser Lines with the final 3D scan files required to 3D print the models, which range in height from 5 to 20cm. In total, the exhibition will boast 700 3D printed objects produced by a range of materials including nylon, titanium, sandstone, and many more.

3D printing is a hot topic right now and our exhibition aims to shine a light on the latest developments and discuss where the technology may take us in future. By displaying models of people in the exhibition, we aim to create a deeper engagement with our visitors. Those who were scanned can feel a physical connection with the exhibition. I hope to see lots of visitors trying to spot themselves once the exhibition has launched.Pippa Hough, Content Developer, Science Museum

According to Hough, the exhibition aims to engage visitors in the latest issues from the world of science and technology through a program of exhibitions and holiday events.

We are extremely proud to be supporting the Science Museum with this project. As the Museum asked us to produce a range of colored models, including orange, green, red and blue, we recommended Stratasys ABS Plus 3D printing material. It comes in a range of colors, but most importantly we expect it to be able to withstand constant interaction with the public, while maintaining fine detail.Jeryl Adcock, Marketing and Administration Manager at Laser Lines