Created with Wolfram Mathematica 9.0 Commercial 3D print possibilites
Recent developments in 3D print technology can be useful for strip builders. Parts that may take a long time to make can simply be 3D-printed and glued to the kayak using epoxy. Needless to say, the parts can be made more beautiful by the builder if he or she is willing to spend the necessary hours. But many would rather prefer using those hours padddling.
Since the deck usually is curved, the shape of accessories like hatches and cockpit coaming depends on the specific kayak being built and where the accessories are placed. We can deliver 3D-printed accessories to strip builders, also those who build kayaks other than our own models. In-house we have so far only a small fusion printer that we use for testing software. We will rely on external vendors of 3D-printing services. We can deliver stl files for those wanting to contact external vendors themselves.
With considerable help from key technical persons in Tjelmeland Friksjon, we will build our own stereolitographic printer which will be operable in a not known time in the future.
Below is a few vendors of 3D printing services. We will write about our experiences here, as we as a first endeavour will print hatches for Turøy.
Sculpteo
No experience with Sculpteo yet.
Hubs
No experience with Hubs yet.
iMaterialise
No experience with i.Materialise yet.
Shapeways
No experience with Shapeways yet.