Additive manufacturing, better known as 3D printing is becoming an easily accessible method to produce 3D objects ranging from medical devices to jet plane parts. However, this implies the creation of an accurate 3D digital model by Computer Assisted Design (CAD) or direct acquisition of a 3D model as well as a correct understanding of the various 3D printing technologies available with their pros and cons. Here, we present a method for editing and printing of 3D models of coral colonies for the generation of accurate and enhanced 3D models suitable for research and education. This is a follow-up from other papers where 3D scanning was performed on fresh coral samples from field trips and coral skeletons from museum collections using different imaging techniques (multi-image photogrammetry and Micro CT scanning). 3D scans of colonies and samples of Turbinaria sp., Leptoseris incrustans, Oulophyllia crispa, Echinopora sp., Siderastrea savignyana, and Platygira daedalea were used to produce multi-material and multi-scale 3D prints. Moreover, we studied the best practices for the 3D printing processes, and potential technologies most suitable for specific attributes in this practice. Additionally, we show the innovative application of 3D printed inert reactive corals able to indicate environmental changes, along with insights into the potential uses for the proposed method and related systems in biological fields and sharing with an online community.
The sudden onset of Coronavirus (SARS-Cov-2) resulted in the creation of large scale informal innovation networks to tackle a lack of critical medical equipment resulting from overwhelmed healthcare systems. Recent developments in distributed manufacturing, remote collaboration and the popularisation of open innovation concepts, added to a human desire to help tackle this pandemic, allowed the generation of innovations at scales, paces and impacts never seen before. This research looks at one such informal innovation network, [1], discussing its formation, development and impacts achieved. A review of the external moderators of the project is conducted, assessing the significant external influences impact its development, followed by an internal management review of the project from an operational viewpoint. The final aspect is a mapping exercise, influences by Chesbrough’s Open Innovation Model, which results in a proposed new version of this model, “The Inverted Open Innovation Distribution Model” derived from analysis of the TeamOSV process in response to Coronavirus (SARS-Cov-2). Future work looking at approach specific policies, regulations, mechanisms and pathways is needed to help increase the potential impact of not open source ventilator projects, but other emergency response projects in the future.
As the production of single use plastic packaging materials is increasing rapidly, the resultant generation of waste material is quickly becoming one of the world’s major environmental issues. These plastic materials are highly stable, with excellent material properties which can allow them to be used beyond their intended single use. To effectively utilize these recovered plastic materials, an understanding of their mechanical properties is required. The aim of this study was to assess the mechanical properties of recovered plastic bottles to prove the feasibility of utilisation for additional uses in non-shredding based recycling systems with lower energy requirements. This system would conserve the physical integrity of the bottles, using them as a raw material for new direct reuse and repurposing applications. Tensile tests were conducted on samples cut from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles considering different sets of variables: cutting method, orientation of the samples and degradation method. The results clearly demonstrate the superior strength characteristics, and minimal effect of degradation, showing the potential for a whole new field of applications where these recovered materials could be used. However, successful adoption of this new concept relies on structural changes to the operations of recycling and manufacturing companies as well as legislators, regulators and the general public.
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