News

Clemson University Students Utilize Mimaki 3D Printer

Published

5 years ago

July 9, 2019

Screen Printing Staff Screen Printing June-July 2019

Clemson University’s Sonoco Institute of Packaging Design and Graphics is using a new 3D printer for such classes as 3D Printing Workflow and Product/Package Design and Prototyping. Students are utilizing a full-color, commercial Mimaki 3DUJ-553 for educational and research initiatives, as part of a continued partnership between the university and printer manufacturer.

Students gain hands-on experience in the design and printing of 3D objects. “I want to show that it is beneficial for reducing the number of individual parts in a product and its assembly process, and can be used to create unique forms, fits, and functions,” says Shu Chang, Ph.D, who teaches the 3D printing class.

The design and prototyping course offers pupils a chance to test their designs, which is how many companies utilize 3D printing to quickly prototype and test a package. “Students design a perfume or cologne bottle, and after we 3D-print it, they can test its functionality,” says Haley Appleby, instructor for the class. With tangible, printed products in their hands, students are able to understand more about the technical and functional aspects of design, she says.

Let’s Talk About It

Creating a More Diverse and Inclusive Screen Printing Industry

LET’S TALK About It: Part 3 discusses how four screen printers have employed people with disabilities, why you should consider doing the same, the resources that are available, and more. Watch the live webinar, held August 16, moderated by Adrienne Palmer, editor-in-chief, Screen Printing magazine, with panelists Ali Banholzer, Amber Massey, Ryan Moor, and Jed Seifert. The multi-part series is hosted exclusively by ROQ.US and U.N.I.T.E Together. Let’s Talk About It: Part 1 focused on Black, female screen printers and can be watched here; Part 2 focused on the LGBTQ+ community and can be watched here.