Learning Rapid Prototyping Technology in South Korea

Tuesday, July 5, 2016
Scanning 3D image of a body
Students participating in the GateWay Study Abroad to Japan and South Korea had an opportunity to learn about Rapid Prototyping Technology at the Seoul National University of Science and Technology (SeoulTech) as part of a new Entrepreneurship Program. 
 
Students first learned how to use AutoDesk 1-2-3 Design, 3-D modeling software.  Students learned that this technology makes it much more flexible and less expensive to create product prototypes.  It is being used for a wide range of products from children's toys to full-size cars.  Houses are actually being designed and built using 3-D printing technology in China.  In this case, the 3-D printer lays down concrete to construct the house. 
 
Students toured a 3-D printing lab where they received a 3-D print out of their first design.  They also had an opportunity to experiment with virtual reality goggles. 
 
The student teams, consisting of 2 Maricopa students and 1 SeoulTech student, developed a product concept.  “Our idea was a lipstick case that contained 3 different shades of lipstick,” explained Brenda Rubio-Sanchez, from the "Funky Monkeys" Team. 
 
Then, once the student teams had developed their product concept, they went to back to the computer lab to create a design of their product they could test with potential consumers.
 
“I spent a lot of time working on the design for our product before we got feedback from customers.  I had never used 3-D modeling software before.  I found out that I really liked it!  It was also great that we got a chance to print our own designs on the 3-D printers!” exclaimed Andre Garcia.  “This is something I would like to work on again in the future.”