Overcoming challenges with technology: Interview with Stefan Knotek

The 3D market has grown substantially over the last couple of years, with new technologies cropping up almost constantly, it seems. One of these technologies- 3D printing, has gained a large following. But, what does that following look like? Today, we had the pleasure of interviewing an enthusiast and, perhaps, tomorrow’s pioneer Stefan Knotek.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got into the 3D printing industry?

Hi! My name is Stefan Knotek, I am 25 years old and I come from Slovakia. Last year, I completed my master degree in Robotics and now I am a PhD student at the Czech Technical University in Prague. The field of my study is Distributed Control.

The first time I encountered 3D printing was at a small conference about open-source hardware two years ago. I was fascinated with the technology and all those possibilities that 3D printing offers. Since then I am interested in 3D printing and everything around it.

I like to repair broken things and build new ones. While I found electronics to be easy to repair, the problem of broken mechanical parts has puzzled me for quite a while. This, motivated me to get into 3D printing.

What are the most important characteristics to become a recognized artist according to you?

I think, you have to see what other people can’t. Explore your ideas and present them in a way that only you can see them, and I’m sure you’ll find an audience that will be able to appreciate your work.

What research methods do you have?

In my free time, I watch CAD tutorials and read news in the world of 3D printing.

What 3D Printer/Printers do you prefer?

I prefer FDM (Fused deposition modeling) 3D printers because they are accessible and can print with durable materials like Carbon or Nilon. The best FDM 3D printer I have worked with is Ultimaker 2. In the future, I would like to put my hands on some SLA (Stereolithography) 3D printer like Formlab’s Form 1+, Form 2 or Autodesk’s Ember.

How would you best describe your projects in three words?

It does not matter how crazy the idea you have is. I have just these three words for you: “Make it happen!”

What makes 3D printing attractive to you?

The Freedom of taking any shape you can think of and making it a physical object. This let’s 3D printing offer many new possibilities to the world.

How do you take a break from work? What are your hobbies?

3D printing is my hobby. When I take a break from school, first of all, I spend some time with my girlfriend (she might be reading this!). I also tune my Prusa i3 3D printer, print, draw in CAD or just browse through 3D printable models on the internet. When I need a break from everything I enjoy doing fitness or go swimming.

Are there any future projects you can tell us about?

Yes, I am going to upgrade my 3D printer to a laser cutter. I am just waiting for some parts to arrive. As the next project, I would like to design and apply the MPC (Model Predictive Control) controller to control the temperature of nozzles on my printer.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I have been doing my best to be an expert in Distributed Control and Advanced Control Algorithms. In 5 years, I would like to work for a company in this field and deepen my knowledge of 3D printing as my hobby.