MIT students design 3D printer that converts home food waste into knick-knacks

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In Boston, Massachusetts Institute of Technology students Biru Cao and Qiqing Wang have developed an AI-drive desktop 3D printer  that converts household food waste into functional objects.

Dubbed FOODres.AI, the system marries several technologies, including object recognition, material processing, and additive manufacturing. The instrument processes kitchen scraps into a bioplastic that is then extruded into preselected forms, such as coasters, containers, and various bric-à-brac.  Based on the food waste in question, a handy app suggests suitable items.

FOODres.AI was submitted to MIT’s IDEAS innovation program and has won several design awards.