05-06-2014: MakerBot published The T-Rex Skeleton and T-Rex Skull on Thingiverse
Those were two of the most iconic 3D printable models to date
On May 6, 2014, MakerBot introduced the Tyrannosaurus rex Skeleton model to the MakerBot Digital Store, a faithfully scaled, anatomically accurate reconstruction of the prehistoric predator’s full skeleton. The model consisted of 19 files, allowing users to print 79 individual pieces that could be assembled without glue using the included instructions. While the full model was paid, MakerBot released the T-Rex Skull separately for free, and it quickly became one of the most popular 3D printable models of its time.
Priced at $14.99, the full skeleton model was intended both to introduce hobbyists to more complex 3D printing projects and to support educational efforts. The simplified T-Rex Skull was shared as free educational content through the MakerBot Academy program on the Thingiverse platform.
Shortly after its release, MakerBot launched the “T-Rex Skull Remix Flash Challenge,” which encouraged users to creatively remix the skull model. The challenge resulted in over a hundred official remixes—including my personal favorite: a version turned into a showerhead inside a bathroom shower cabin.
The MakerBot T-Rex Skeleton is widely regarded as one of the most iconic examples of 3D printing used for both educational and hobbyist purposes. It remains a popular project among users of platforms like Thingiverse and stands as a symbol of the early success of 3D printing in education and digital maker culture.
At the time of writing this article, the full skeleton model (long since made freely available) ranks as the 43rd most popular 3D model in Thingiverse history. The skull alone ranks 47th.
Source: www.thingiverse.com & www.thingiverse.com & www.stratasys.com
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