Reviving Tradition with Innovation: The Candy 3D Printer

Blending Chinese Folk Art and Modern Technology for a Fun, Creative Experience

The Candy 3D Printer is inspired by the traditional Chinese folk art of "Sugar Figure Blowing," a craft that is gradually disappearing due to its complexity and the dwindling number of artisans. The designers' aim was to promote this fascinating art form through the use of 3D printing technology, bringing it closer to children and adding a touch of fun to their lives.

What sets this 3D printer apart is its ability to use various flavors of candy particles as printing material, creating tasty and colorful images. Operated via a mobile phone app, the printer offers a variety of 3D data models to choose from, adding a layer of creativity and enjoyment to the children's experience. The machine's design is simple and rounded, with a cartoonish color scheme that appeals to its young users.

The Candy 3D Printer is primarily made of plastic with a natural color injection and a matte surface. The front window, made of transparent acrylic, opens with a spring switch to reveal the finished candy. The internal mechanical structure mirrors that of traditional 3D printers, using food-grade materials. The candy particles are heated and melted inside the machine, then solidified and shaped through the nozzle, similar to a hot melt gun.

The printer has three raw material tanks for different candy materials. Through the app, users can set the printing order, number, and size of the printed model. The app also displays the time and amount of raw materials required for different sizes and models. The overall image of the model leans towards cartoonish, adding to the fun and playful nature of the printer.

The project started in April 2019 in Hebei, China, and was completed in February 2020. The design process involved studying the working principle of 3D printers, the state of sugar at different heating times, and the colors and shapes of candy that children prefer. The designers also developed and adjusted the app to ensure a user-friendly experience. The biggest challenge was integrating traditional Chinese folk art with modern technology, a task that required careful balance and trade-offs.

The Candy 3D Printer was awarded Silver in the A' Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award recognizes top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The award is a testament to the designers' ability to combine tradition with technology, creating a product that not only entertains but also educates and preserves a piece of Chinese cultural heritage.