Record Breaking Ukrainian Coat of Arms 3D Printed at Kiev Conference

The 3D Print Conference Kiev orchestrated a monumental record for visitors and participants on September 5, 2014, creating the largest ever 3D printed coat of arms for independent Ukraine. Gracing Ukrainian record books, the dimensions of the emblem are 120 x 72 centimeters.

In the National Registry of Records of Ukraine, the 3D coat of arms is listed as “the biggest flag of Ukraine.” This is not only a record for the Ukraine, but also for the world of 3D printing—of course at this point, 3D processes are overlapping into nearly every conceivable innovation for the purposes of creativity, speed, engineering control, and cost-effectiveness.

The coat of arms was printed in the national colors–the strands of blue and gold. As is typical of the enthusiasm generated by the 3D printing process, it was a community event while participants watched and waited with excitement during the four-hour process it took to print. Anticipation grew, as did warmth in the hearts of the Ukrainians who are extra sensitive right now regarding their independence, which they struggle to hold onto tightly despite the efforts of pro-Russia separatists, and Putin’s determination to keep the Ukraine in his country’s orbit.

 

The flag is always a symbol of one’s pride in their country, so in creating the largest coat of arms ever, Ukrainians are exhibiting a forceful symbol regarding how they view their country’s independence, despite the ongoing bullying from Putin that has caused international outrage. Best explained by Daniel Drezner, international politics professor at Tufts University. “Russia without Ukraine is a country. Russia with Ukraine is an empire.” While Ukrainians obviously consider themselves separate of Russia, land boundaries have historically caused conflict, and it’s not likely to be resolved anytime soon.

The show must go on though, and at this conference participants were treated to a full introduction and immersion into the world of 3D business, with a demonstration area featuring 3D printers and scanners. The conference, while full of Ukrainian symbolism and pride, was focused on 3D printing innovation, with topics such as industrial 3D printing with metal, 3D printing in schools, the jewelry sector, and design. They also covered a number of other topics related to the industries specific to Ukraine. Speakers were from such companies as Materialise and Secured3D Development, as well as individuals specializing in jewelry, fashion, and even a Ukrainian attorney speaker, who practices media law.

Production of the coat of arms was a genius effort to encourage group effort at the conference so that everyone was involved in making history as well as supporting and celebrating Ukrainian independence. Drawing worldwide attention, the bottom line is that 3D printing is having a positive effect on the world. What are your thoughts on this coat of arms? Have you seen anything similar to this in 3D printing? Please join the discussion at the Ukraine 3D printed coat of arms forum thread on 3DPB.com.  Check out the video below of the piece, thanks to Ruptly.tv: