The Future of 3D Printing on Display at Florida Science Museum

Though 3D printing as we know it is a relatively new technology, it is already changing the way we live.

A new exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa, Fla. that kicks off this weekend, shows how 3D printing is saving lives and changing the world

The exhibit, “3-D Printing the Future”, aims to take people on an interactive and immersive journey into the world of 3D printing.

The exhibit is divided into six sections: 3D Medicine, 3D Science & Technology, 3D Archeology, 3D Fun, 3D Workshop and 3D Live Showcase.

MOSI’s director of innovation Anthony Pelaez told Tampa Bay’s CBS affiliate that things such as 3D printed prosthetics will change everything.

As an example, he mentioned 3D printing’s potential in the realm of medical prosthetics. A typical medical prosthetic can cost upwards of $50,000, while a 3D printed one only costs a fraction of that amount.

“This is changing the world because, obviously, there are a lot of children in the world who need prosthetics. So now, this design gets shared. And we have 3-D printers popping up all over the world,” he said.

“Maybe in Africa, a child needs a prosthetic hand. They can print it out and they can benefit from this.”

In addition to medical devices, other 3D printed items on display will include 3D-printed musical instruments, toys, fashion, Minecraft blocks and jewelry.

There will also be a focus on future applications for 3D printing in the home, such as creating a replacement part for a dishwasher, an extra place setting at the dining table for unexpected company or tailored clothing on demand.

Visitors to the event will even learn how 3D printing is helping professionals do their jobs better. They will learn how 3D printing can help detectives solve crimes; scientists work in inaccessible places and gain a better understanding of ancient people, places and animals; factory workers build cars and houses; and astronauts complete their missions.

The 3D Live Showcase is a live stage show at the exhibit. According to MOSI, the show will feature a variety of demonstrations, including interactive scanning, a jam session that uses 3D printed instruments, and a step-by-step primer on the 3D printing process.

For those wishing to explore the exhibit, the museum is located on 4801 E Fowler Ave, in Tampa Florida, and is free for those who have purchased a MOSI admission ticket.

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seum of Science and Industry  Museum of Science and Industry