The 3D Printed Humidifier That Uses No Electricity

The Print Clay Humidifier is a 3D printed product capable of operating while consuming no energy. The innovative device, made by designer Jiaming Liu, is inspired by the way trees work. In addition to being the first of its kind, this humidifier has a strikingly unique shape and operation, both of which are only possible through the use of additive manufacturing.

An Electricity-Free 3D Printed Humidifier

Jiaming Liu created the 3D printed humidifier as a graduate project at Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen, Germany. It stems from a near-perfect exercise in intelligent, environmentally friendly design that brings value to the user through low-cost traditional materials and high-tech manufacturing techniques. In fact, the device works because of this precise combination.

The material makes the humidifier lightweight and placeable on any surface or piece of furniture.

The humidifier is inspired by the way trees function in nature: “The bottom water storage part is like the ground and soil. The extension curves (which are inside the water container) are like the roots of a tree absorbing water. The main part carries the water upward and extends, like tree trunks and branches,” the designer explained. This evaporation process is the same one which earthenware water containers use to cool their contents, a natural process that thus eliminates the need for electricity .

The Creation of the Product

Jiaming Liu created the Print Clay Humidifier by 3D printing using an FDM clay printer. Specifically recycled ceramic powder was added to the clay in a 1:3 ratio. This material not only makes it possible to improve the strength and water absorption of the device but, once the product’s life cycle is over, it will also be easily recyclable and reusable as clinker.

Comparison of water absorption height, from left: 1. Clay without additions; 2. Clay with 30% recycled ceramic powder added; 3. Clay with 30% recycled ceramic powder added and molded with a special texture.

The uniqueness of the 3D printed shape is critical to the humidifier’s operation. According to the designer it would be nearly impossible to make by hand or other injection molding production methods. “Compared to other humidifiers on the market, its unique printing structure allows it to better absorb and evaporate water. In addition, the clay’s micropores are much more effective in releasing water into the atmosphere: the evaporation rate is significantly higher, absorbing more water and evaporating faster,” added Jiaming Liu.