There are countless web-based 3D model repositories, but none are quite like Wevolver, who focus on actually doing practical something with your 3D prints.
While this publication focuses on 3D printing technologies, it’s important to remember that 3D printing is but one of many different making methods, and more often than not, multiple processes must be employed to build functional objects. This is the philosophy behind Wevolver: 3D printing is just another tool; A tool that can help make useful things.
Wevolver is a repository, unlike many you’ll find in the 3D printing universe, as it includes not just “3D models for printing”, but instead actual projects to use 3D printing and other techniques to build machines, vehicles, sensors, robots, personal prosthetics and even 3D printers. They explain:
At Wevolver we want to empower makers to turn their ideas into reality. That’s why we’ve built a platform that is powerful, flexible and intuitive. Our clean and friendly interface allows you to focus on exploring or building your projects. Wevolver aims to be social, inspiring and most of all open. Let’s create the future of technology together.
Each entry contains images and explanations of the project suitable for you to decided whether to take on the work. The entry will also point you to all necessary parts lists, software and instructions required to build the item.
To be sure, some of the projects actually do not involve 3D printing at all, but many do, making Wevolver an attractive site for those with 3D printers looking for something interesting to make.
Wevolver permits members to follow particular projects, add comments to discuss the project, track items made and of course start new projects.
The approach by Wevolver is dramatically different from traditional 3D model repositories like Thingiverse, YouMagine and others, in that the purpose of each and every entry is to make something useful. In the vast universe that is Thingiverse, for example, you can find many non-useful items, and some are even unprintable.
This service follows a theme I’ve been observing in 3D printing companies: focus on the applications of the technology, rather than the technology itself. It seems that after the initial thrill of 3D printing has passed, people must have a reason to own a 3D printer.
Wevolver could provide many projects to fill that gap.
Via Wevolver
