The convergence of digital fabrication and iconic toy construction has resulted in customizable interlocking brick designs producible through additive manufacturing technologies. These digitally fabricated components offer a tangible link between virtual design and physical creation, enabling users to generate bespoke building blocks at home or in workshops.
This capability presents numerous advantages, including access to rare or discontinued brick shapes, cost-effective replacement of lost parts, and the potential for creating entirely novel interlocking designs that expand construction possibilities. This development traces back to the increasing accessibility of 3D printers and the growing popularity of open-source design sharing platforms, leading to a surge in user-generated designs and communities centered around digital fabrication of these components.
The subsequent sections will explore the design considerations for creating viable interlocking bricks, the materials best suited for their production, and the potential applications that extend beyond simple replication to encompass educational tools and artistic expression. Further discussion will address copyright and intellectual property implications, as well as the evolving landscape of digital design and distributed manufacturing.
