3D Printing the Rugby World Cup
TCT’s English HQ is just 1.72m from the Welsh border and thus the Rugby World Cup has become something of a sore point since England became the first host nation to crash out at the first hurdle, thanks in no small part to a crushing defeat by Wales. TCT Show’s John Jones (he’s a proud Welshman in case the name doesn’t give it away) has been particularly vociferous since the Dragons overturned a nine-point deficit to roar to victory.
Although English dreams of lifting the Webb Ellis Cup have been dashed, more people than usual may be able to get their hands on the trophy, or at least a replica, thanks to 3D scanning and 3D printing technology.
For the Canon EXPO in Paris next week the imaging company, who recently dipped their toe into the 3D printing pool with a distribution agreement with 3D systems, has produced an incredible replica in order to showcase the advancements in technology and promote its sponsorship of the ongoing event.
Leading British-based Chartered Surveying company, Plowman Craven supplied the 3D laser scanning of the precious trophy, 3D Systems SLA technology was used to print the trophy and BJS Gold finished the trophy by electroplating it in gold.
England may not have been able to replicate the heroics of 2003 but Canon and partners have managed to preciously recreate the antique Victorian trophy, which is over 80 years older than the actual competition itself.