3D printer

The Craft and Magic of Technology

Teams of computer experts compete against each other to build a 3D printer – in just two days.

You’re invited to come and watch their progress at the GIST Lab, between 3pm and 6.30pm on Saturday, and between 2pm and 4pm on Sunday.

Spaces are free, but due to limited capacity at the venue you should sign up here to book your place.

The teams have two days to build a machine that will print a functional 3D object, embodying the magic of advanced technology.

At 3pm on Sunday, there will be a talk on RepRap Evolution, followed by the presentation of the Golden Spanner to the team who produce the most magical result.

Teams from the University of Sheffield, the GIST Foundation and the wider community are being funded by Festival of the Mind to take part. Email magic@thegistfoundation.org to find out more.

Chris Palmer (aka NopHead), an expert in the field of open source 3D printing, is providing the kits to build his novel Mendel90 3-D printer design. Chris will also be overseeing the teams’ progress during the weekend.

The GIST Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that promotes technology-driven grassroots and social innovation.

RepRap is a collaborative open source project originating from Bath University that develops and publishes designs for self-replicating 3D printers.

The University of Sheffield team is led by Dr John McMillan from the Department of Physics and Astronomy.