Preliminary 3D Printing and 3D Printed Objects in Collections Survey Findings

August 8, 2022

Preliminary 3D Printing and 3D Printed Objects in Collections Survey Findings

Rochester Institute of Technology, Elizabeth Lamark.

This month, IPI is completing the first year of a three-year research project aimed at building a foundational understanding of how museums are creating, collecting, and consuming 3D printed objects. In May and June of 2022, project work included an online survey assessing how collecting institutions are using 3D printing and interacting with 3D printed objects and materials across a broad range of activities. Participants were able to choose different sections of the survey to take depending upon their professional experience with 3D printing. Highlights and preliminary findings from the survey are summarized in this initial report. A full length report will be forthcoming and will be made available on the 3D Printed Materials page.

Read More

Recommended News

May 2, 2023
Job Opportunity: Sustainable Preservation Specialist
Job Opportunity: Sustainable Preservation Specialist

The Image Permanence Institute (IPI) in the College of Art and Design (CAD) at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is pleased to announce its opening for a Sustainable Preservation Specialist. The Sustainable Preservation Specialist will provide information and guidance to a range of collecting institutions on the role of environment in preservation, and best practices for sustainable environmental management through a variety of consulting, outreach (teaching and publication), research, and technical support activities.

February 1, 2023
Survey Results: 3D Printing and 3D Printed Objects in Collecting Institutions
Survey Results: 3D Printing and 3D Printed Objects in Collecting Institutions

In May-June 2022, IPI conducted an online survey assessing how collecting institutions are using 3D printing and interacting with 3D printed objects and materials. The survey covered three major areas: 3D printed objects and artwork found in collections, conservation treatments of 3D printed objects, and 3D printing in preservation and access activities, including its use as a tool in conservation treatments of non-3D printed objects, exhibition and display, and collections transportation.

October 26, 2022
Introducing Dr. Marvin Cummings, Research Scientist
Introducing Dr. Marvin Cummings, Research Scientist

IPI is thrilled to announce that Dr. Marvin Cummings will join the team as Research Scientist in November 2022. Marvin brings extensive research experience from the technology sector, with a solid interdisciplinary background across the physical sciences, engineering, and archeometry.

September 15, 2022
Mapping Environmental Conditions That Prevent Plastic Deterioration While Contributing to Sustainable Preservation Environmental Management
Mapping Environmental Conditions That Prevent Plastic Deterioration While Contributing to Sustainable Preservation Environmental Management

The Image Permanence Institute received a National Leadership Grant for Museums from the Institute of Museum and Library Services in the amount of $711,598 to support a three-year research project that will study the relationship between equilibrium moisture content (EMC) and the physical stability of plastics and plastic composite artifacts found in museums.