The technology works by building up layer upon layer of material - typically plastic - to build complex solid objects.

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The design of the Kilobot is inspired by insects, which are capable of swarming behaviors to look for food, transport large objects, build structures, etc.

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The next step is working to build a clocking device that can hide bigger objects in three-dimensions.

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SmartThings aims to build a platform to make it easy to connect all these disparate objects and processes.

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That type of design uses three parallel arms to control the print head, enabling a device that's not only "fun to watch, " according to the group, but that can also quickly print high resolution objects with a large 9-inch by 11-inch build envelope.

ENGADGET

"We were motivated by a desire to design a system for anyone to both build with fabric in a way similar to playing with Lego and create objects that are rich with relevant context-aware computation without having to program, " said Nanda, who devised the patches for a project towards a Media Arts and Sciences masters degree.

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We discussed the strangely tiny build of 18th century women and the discomfort of girdles, looked at centuries-old objects like sock dryers and sausage makers, and deciphered old letters, including the infamous valentine and one from George Washington himself.

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Dr Oxman believes the design and construction of objects could be transformed using principles inspired by nature, resulting in shapes that are impossible to build without additive manufacturing.

ECONOMIST: 3D printing