Rapidly Manufacturing a Full-Sized Canoe in Less Than 24 Hours Through 3D Printing Technology
==========================================================================
Ivan Miranda, a creative innovator, has successfully printed a full-sized kayak using a unique 3D printer that repurposes a treadmill as its bed. This groundbreaking project, showcased in a video available after the break, demonstrates the potential of large-scale additive manufacturing for printing long, slender objects.
The key to Miranda's treadmill 3D printer lies in its custom design. The treadmill's continuous belt movement functions as the Y-axis bed, enabling the printing of objects longer than traditional fixed beds allow. To ensure precision and stability, the treadmill bed was reinforced, and the printer's gantry-style design was modified to move the extruder in the X and Z axes, while the treadmill moves the Y axis.
To handle high-speed, high-volume extrusion, the extruder was upgraded, and a larger nozzle (1.8 mm diameter) was used to lay down thick, fast layers. Powerful cooling fans were also added to manage heat effectively.
For the printing process, Miranda used a plastic filament suitable for outdoor and water use, such as ABS or PETG. The kayak shell was designed to maximise the treadmill belt width for efficiency and print speed.
Post-processing involved sanding and using a 3D pen to smooth and fix imperfections. The hull was filled with foam for buoyancy and structure, and the exterior was coated with epoxy to make the kayak watertight.
Despite the initial kayak's narrow design, which made it challenging to get into, Miranda systematically addressed each issue to create a setup capable of printing a kayak in less than 24 hours. However, due to its size and shape, the kayak is not suitable for ocean use. It might be floatable and functional for a smaller individual.
Miranda's project underscores the ability to 3D print large items quickly with the right printer. However, it also highlights the challenges involved in such a process, particularly the amount of heat generated during faster printing, which requires careful management.
Miranda suggests that further refinements are needed for the kayak to be used effectively. Maritime engineering principles will play a crucial role in producing viable watercraft in the future. This innovative project serves as a testament to the limitless possibilities of 3D printing technology.
[1] Source for the article [2] Another source for further reading
Technology played a vital role in Ivan Miranda's kayak 3D printing project, as he upgraded the extruder and added cooling fans to enhance the speed and heat management during the printing process. Moreover, he utilized advanced materials like ABS or PETG suitable for outdoor and water use.
