Meet Ben Smeaton. As a design engineer he spends a lot of time building 3D models and uses 3D printing for prototyping. The huge growth in consumer interest in 3D printing gives designers like him a whole new avenue to express their creativity. Ben joined the 3DLT design team to create toys and other 3D printable products. We thought we’d introduce him by asking a few questions:
3DLT: Why Do You Like 3D Printing?
Ben: As a design engineer I have found 3D printing indispensable for creating quick prototype parts. Being able to hold a physical product in your hands while still in the concept stage gives you insight into the fit, form and function of a product that you can’t get from a computer screen. The movement of this technology from businesses into people’s homes is an amazing step forward, it allows designers like me, who enjoy creating and designing, to finally have an outlet to view their physical creations and at the same time, access to a market. I see it as being the same feeling an artist would get holding their finished painting, it sort of completes the process.
3DLT: What do you like to create?
Ben: Mainly things that interest me, I like to create things that have a certain depth or purpose to them. I enjoy assembling stuff and then being able to use the item in some way. I always make sure there’s some sort of humor or fun involved in the product. I don’t want to create things that are boring.
Fun is an appropriate word when it comes to Ben’s designs for 3D printed toys. Check out this miniature car launcher and Stunt Car Xtreme toy set he recently submitted.
3DLT: Where are you living and why?
Ben: I am originally from England but I currently live and work in Perth, Australia. I’m definitely a fan of sunshine.
Thanks to Ben for joining the team at 3DLT. We’re looking forward to seeing more of his work. If you’d like to see more now, visit Ben Smeaton’s 3DLT store.
Every month we conduct “theme drives” with our designers, where we challenge them to design specific types of products. This month’s category is toys. We chose toys for a few reasons. First, there have been a lot of inspiring stories lately about how kids are getting involved with 3D printing. We’d like to see this trend continue and are committed to providing designs that families can make and enjoy (like the awesome toy car set above.)
But we’re also thinking ahead to the holidays. 3D printers and 3D printed products will be big on gift shopping lists this year. We want to make sure we’ve got a catalog full of items ready for you to download and print. Our designers have responded and new designs are coming in daily. Want to submit your own 3D printable toy designs? Become a designer at 3DLT.com.
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