Techwatch: Computational Thermoforming / Hydrographic Printing

[Rodney]

Computational Thermoforming is an old technology (paints applied via immersion in water) modernized an applied to 3D printing with impressive results:

 

xhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFkVxurKeAs

 

 

More closely aligned to the older methodology, hyrodgraphy is highly useful as well.

 

Both approaches are familar to those who texture models in Animation:Master and other programs.

The trick being to do the texturing as precisely as possible with minimal passes to achieve the desired results.

 

That (wet method) can be seen in a more modern form here:

 

xhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlUhPrAqiY0

 

There are quite a few youtube videos that demonstrate the hydrographic application of texturing and color.

The ones I recall seeing most recently were examples used with street art and for quickly applying complicated graphics to metal (ala customized motorcycles).

 

Whereas hydrographic techniques tend to be better suited to unique application Computational Thermoforming appears to apply more to mass production.

 

 

Also related: xhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZZtYEh7-Zw

[EmilyBrown]

Hydrographic Printing is a 3D decorating process and also known as a water transfer printing. It is very interesting way and video you shared here of hydrographic printing. I like it. Thanks for sharing.