Arsenals of History 2019: 3D Printing & Scanning for Museums

Published on September 7, 2019
Duration: 41:01

This video details the Springfield Armory's exploration of 3D printing and scanning for museum education. The presenter, Scott, outlines the process of acquiring a 3D printer and scanner, the challenges faced, and the potential applications for creating educational tools and exhibits. The focus is on leveraging these technologies to enhance public engagement with firearms history and promote STEAM education.

Quick Summary

Museums can enhance educational programs by using 3D printing and scanning to create interactive exhibits and safe replicas of artifacts, promoting STEAM education and kinesthetic learning. Key considerations for selecting a 3D printer include US assembly, pre-assembly, customer support, and portability, while challenges involve learning curves, teacher interest, and time constraints.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction and Speaker Bio
  2. 00:56Presentation Overview: 3D Tech in Museums
  3. 01:40Springfield Armory National Historic Site
  4. 03:30Acquiring a 3D Printer: The Budget Challenge
  5. 04:34The STEAM Education Concept
  6. 06:103D Printing for Educational Objects
  7. 07:01Printing Mini-Balls for Programs
  8. 08:22Using Animations and 3D Scans
  9. 09:22Static Firearms Exhibits vs. Interactive Displays
  10. 11:19Getting Approval for a 3D Printer
  11. 11:39Choosing a 3D Printer: Key Parameters
  12. 14:24The Chosen Printer: Fusion 3D
  13. 15:06What to Print: Finding Designs Online
  14. 16:23Challenges with Online Firearm Models
  15. 17:41Creating Designs in CAD Software
  16. 19:16Exploring 3D Scanners
  17. 20:00Scanner Price Shock and Budget Options
  18. 20:57The EinScan 3D Scanner in Action
  19. 21:53First Scan: A Mini Ball
  20. 23:35Rendering the Scan into an STL File
  21. 25:47First 3D Print: A Mini Ball Replica
  22. 26:13Scanning a 1903 Bolt
  23. 27:453D Printing Challenges: Supports and Overhangs
  24. 29:06Legal Considerations: Ghost Guns
  25. 29:44Difficulties: Learning Curve and Teacher Interest
  26. 31:41Time Consumption and Printer Speed
  27. 32:08Space and Noise Considerations
  28. 33:05Successes: Printer Choice and Educational Objects
  29. 34:37Support from Colleagues and Management
  30. 35:07Future Plans: School Partnerships and Interpretive Displays
  31. 36:24Future Learning: CAD Proficiency
  32. 37:06Developing STEAM Curriculum
  33. 37:46Discussion: Future Considerations for Museums
  34. 38:02Disassembling Museum Objects for Scanning
  35. 38:24Appropriateness of Sharing Firearm Scans
  36. 39:11Is a 3D Printer Necessary?
  37. 39:49Legalities of 3D Printed Firearms
  38. 40:38Q&A and Closing Remarks

Frequently Asked Questions

How can museums use 3D printing and scanning for educational purposes?

Museums can leverage 3D printing and scanning to create interactive exhibits, safe replicas of artifacts for handling, and digital models for virtual tours or animations. This technology enhances kinesthetic learning and engagement, particularly for subjects like firearms history where direct interaction with original items might be limited or impractical.

What are the key considerations when selecting a 3D printer for a museum or educational institution?

When choosing a 3D printer, prioritize factors like being made or assembled in the USA, pre-assembly for ease of use, readily available customer support, and portability. These aspects ensure practicality, compliance with funding requirements, and efficient integration into existing workflows and spaces.

What are the challenges associated with implementing 3D printing in educational programs?

Challenges include a steep learning curve for CAD software and printer operation, securing teacher interest and buy-in, the time-consuming nature of printing, and the need for adequate space. Overcoming these requires clear program development, accessible training, and efficient workflow planning.

What is the role of STEAM education in museums, and how does 3D printing fit in?

STEAM education integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics to foster innovation. 3D printing directly supports this by allowing students to engage in design, creation, and problem-solving, making abstract concepts tangible and aligning museum programming with modern educational priorities.

What are the legal implications of 3D printing firearms or firearm components?

The legal landscape for 3D printed firearms, especially 'ghost guns,' is complex and varies by jurisdiction. It's crucial to research specific federal, state, and local laws regarding manufacturing, possession, and serialization of firearms and components created through additive manufacturing.

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