New angles and concepts in 3D printing are always welcome, and we haven’t seen anything like it completely Likes [Horn & Rhode]’s 3D prints that are not the same as 3D printswas accomplished using an experimental tool called Hoyforge. The concept behind it is simple (though not easy), and the results can be amazing when applied correctly.
The idea is this: fused colored filament is, in a sense, not unlike colored paint. Both come in different colors, and are applied in thin layers, blending with new colors as you do so. When applied correctly, stunning images can turn out. An example is shown here, but there are many more of both Hoyforge Project page as well Templates on Printables.
Instead of a 3D printer producing a 3D object, the printer creates a (mostly) flat image that is similar in structure to lithophane. But unlike lithophanes, these blend colors in clever and efficient ways by printing very thin layers in very precise ways.
Doing this effectively requires a software tool to plot color changes and predict what the result will look like. This all relies on the fact that even solid color filaments aren’t actually completely opaque—not when printed at a layer height of 0.08mm, anyway—and as a result, the colors will blend into each other when layered. This is how a model like the one shown here can get away with just a few string changes.
Of course, this process is far from fully automated. Good results require quite a bit of manual effort, and the permeability of one’s thread choices plays a huge role in how the colors actually blend. That’s where FilaScope It comes in: a tool for objectively measuring how well (or how poorly) a given filament transmits light. The results are entered into a file Hoyforge Software to better simulate results and plan filament changes.
The print result shows the results of filament blending.
Italics to catch the light, giving an idea of how the typography is organized.
When done well, it is possible to create things that are not at all like what we would expect from 3D printed things. Proof-of-concept form Available here If you want to try it out for yourself, there is also a Aztec carving It gives a convincing impression of depth.
[Horn & Rhode] Point out that this concept is still looking for a name that sounds right. Front-lit litophane? reverse lithophane? Filament painting? Basic pattern mixed color? If you have a better idea, we urge you not to keep it to yourself because [Horn & Rhode] I definitely want to hear from you.
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