TCT recently took a look at the 3D printing crowdfunding revolution which has seen a wave of 3D printers popping up this year each claiming to offer something unique. Now an 11 year old boy has turned to crowdfunding to help kick start his 3D printer project to drive his ambition of a career in mechanical engineering.
With the help of his parents, David Armstrong began his Kickstarter project in August to raise a total of $4000. He hopes to get his hands on an Ultimaker 2 3D printer, software and materials so that he can improve his modelling skills and explore the technology.
David has an interest in science, mathematics, 3D modelling and gaming and already knows that he wants to go to CalTech, home of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory to study towards a degree in mechanical engineering.
Unlike other 3D printing Kickstarter campaigns, David is offering pledgers in the US the chance to choose from a range of 3D designs that will be printed on his new machine and shipped November through to December should he reach his target.
Backers can pledge anything up from $1 with printed rewards starting at $5 including a 3D printed thank you card, an Eiffel Tower, a double pyramid, hypercube or captive ball. Pledgers can even send their own STL file to be printed.
The campaign closes on 18th September and if it proves a success, David will attempt to run the printer for 24 hours a day and print anywhere between nine and 12 models at a time.