There are many ways to apply 3D printing technology, most of which focus on prototyping product models in the early stages. This time, 3DMart was honored to receive a 3D printing commission from House of Husk to print a rice husk chopstick model using the Ultimaker3 3D printer.
Let's learn about House of Husk, the company that designed these unique chopsticks!
House of Husk specializes in the research, development, manufacturing, and agency of rice husk-related products. Their products focus on natural colors, simplicity, safety, and eco-friendly tableware.
Design Philosophy
Most common chopstick materials on the market come from logging trees and bamboo forests, causing significant damage to the Earth. Chopsticks also have larger fiber pores,
which can easily breed bacteria and cause mold. Long-term use of such deteriorated tableware can pose a health risk.
Therefore, based on the concept that rice is a staple food for East Asians, we chose rice husks—the leftover material after milling—as the primary material for our products. The research and development team discovered that rice husks contain a high amount of
"ferulic acid," an ingredient that effectively inhibits bacteria and mold. Recycling rice husks to make chopsticks is not only environmentally friendly but also creates new life. We aim to provide consumers with eco-friendly tableware that they can eat with peace of mind and use with confidence.
Design Process
Chopsticks may seem simple, but many details need attention. Is the overall grip comfortable? Does food easily slip when picked up? The overall aesthetics of the chopsticks also need to be considered. These are all essential factors.
Each piece of tableware requires a mold for production, and mold costs can range from hundreds of thousands to several millions. However, using 3D printing to create samples for evaluation first
can save a lot of time and money.
The chopstick samples printed with the Ultimaker3 3D printer not only have small error margins and excellent texture but also helped us avoid the huge costs of mold modifications after initial production.
Rice husk chopstick samples printed with the Ultimaker3 3D printer, using PLA with PVA filament to maintain the most complete model quality.
The printed chopsticks have almost zero tolerance and can be used for actual testing.
The upper part can be detached and used as a chopstick rest.
The R&D team completed the rice husk tableware after continuous experimentation and production, and each piece of tableware must pass inspection before it can be launched.
Rice husk chopsticks prototyped with 3D printing samples.
Rice husk chopstick details (left: used as a chopstick rest; right: stored)
Future Development
House of Husk will continue to develop eco-friendly and non-toxic tableware, making full use of natural materials to promote green environmental protection and protect our health and that of future generations.
By injecting green concepts and safeguarding health, we can eat with peace of mind and use with confidence.
If you are interested in natural eco-friendly tableware, you can find more information on their website. The editor is quite tempted~ After all, their products are reasonably priced, healthy, and environmentally friendly. If you like them, you can really buy and use them!!!
House of Husk Official Website http://www.house-of-husk.com.tw/