Innovation of the week: An ingenious 3-D printer
This new 3-D printer can turn just about anything into a digital device

A new 3-D printer can turn just about anything into a digital device, said Mike Murphy at Quartz. The Voxel8, designed by a group of Harvard scientists, uses a proprietary, electrically conductive printing material "about the consistency of peanut butter" to print circuits directly into an object.
The technology, developed in the university's material-science lab, has already been used to print a working quadcopter drone and could conceivably print a computer's motherboard. Next up, the designers hope to add other materials, like epoxies, silicone, and ceramics, so that users can eventually print things as varied as "batteries, a web-connected cereal bowl, or even a pair of shoes loaded with sensors." A developer's model is available for preorder for $9,000, with a consumer version to follow soon.
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
What are the different types of nuclear weapons?
The Explainer Speculation mounts that post-war taboo on nuclear weapons could soon be shattered by use of 'battlefield' missiles
-
Floral afternoon teas to enjoy during the Chelsea Flower Show
The Week Recommends These are the prettiest spots in the city to savour a traditional treat
-
How to plan a trip along the Mississippi River
The Week Recommends See this vital waterway from the Great River Road