You’ve no doubt often used printers for school papers and reports. But can you imagine printing a three-dimensional object – something as complex as an action figure or a human heart? Soon such creation might be (almost) as simple as hitting Ctrl + P.
3D technology – from the new immersive animated movies to breakthrough medical imaging software – has been in the news a lot lately. So what about 3D printers? These remarkable devices, which possess the ability to print a three-dimensional object, have actually been around since the 1980s, aiding countless engineers and designers. But only recently have they become much faster, smaller, and more affordable.
The EPGY Summer Institutes are 2-to-4-week residential programs for academically talented and motivated middle and high-school students. The Summer Institutes provide an opportunity for students to pursue their intellectual curiosity and meet others who share their interests and abilities. Participants are enrolled in a single intensive-study course, taught by a Stanford instructor, and covering topics not typically presented at their grade level. Costs range from $5,900 to $3,175, with limited financial aid. $40 Application fee waived for application submitted by Jan. 13, 2010.
Everyone take out your cardboard glasses, because these days more and more movies seem to be reaching into the next dimension. 3D movies have been around since the Great Depression and even enjoyed a brief surge of popularity in the 1950s, but recently this immersive format has returned with a vengeance.
This week Fox will release the 3D animated sci-fi movie Avatar, directed by James Cameron (who’s other projects include Terminator I and II, Alien).
How would you like to turn your notebook paper into an instant battery? Now, thanks to researchers at Stanford, with a little carbon nanotube ink such a thing might be possible. Not only does the specially coated paper last longer and conduct electricity more efficiently than traditional lithium batteries, but it even works after being crumpled into a ball and soaked in acidic solutions.
Watch above as Yi Cui, an assistant professor of materials science and engineering, explains his creation. [Stanford News]
Bucknell University will host its 4th annual Engineering and Science Education Expo Mon., Dec. 7. More than 50 student teams will share inquiry-based teaching units and gizmos designed to teach science and engineering concepts to K-8 students. The Gizmo Expo allows participants to watch the gizmos in action, talk to student designers, and learn.
