A different approach to research with the UP Food Science Department and the DLS MakerSpace

When pursuing research in the world today, there are various methods, techniques and technological advances that have altered the opportunities available to pursue fresh knowledge. The Department of Library Services’ (DLS) MakerSpace recently collaborated with a bright group of innovative students from the Department of Food Sciences in conducting their research, which focused on the perceptions of food quantities using 3D printed samples.

This concept was formalized in late 2016, and from there a roadmap was established to determine best practices with this exciting new approach to food sciences. As with most new methods, a few changes were required throughout the project, but, after experimental investigations, the best scanning techniques were studied, until a program developed by Autodesk that uses photos to “stitch” a 3D scan together was determined to be the most viable. The food to be sampled was then made to specification, and scanning could begin by taking several photos of each ideal portion, and then rendered into 3D printable files. Once all scans were completed, a layering technique of plastic for fully rendered models was completed within the MakerSpace to produce the tangible models.

Despite the complex scanning and intensive rendering required to make this project a success, it was made possible through perseverance of the students and staff here at the library, who extensively tested and researched best approaches to be able to print their models, and use them for future research.

The study has been conducted, and preliminary results seem promising in determining if people’s perceptions of what is the appropriate portion size of food is indeed correct. The benefit of this technique is that skills learned can now be applied to various other projects, and should the study need to be redone by researchers abroad, the printable files are readily available for collaboration.

The library strives to support and assist students in their endeavors in making a difference with the movement towards the maker culture!