With OpenAI’s new 3D model tool Shap-E, text-to-3D printing may soon be a reality

2023-05-10T12:11:00-04:00

OpenAI, the company behind AI applications such as ChatGPT and text-to-image tool DALL-E, has unveiled a new model that allows users to generate 3D objects from text or images. Named Shap-E, and available for free on GitHub, the tool generates 3D objects that can be opened in Microsoft Paint 3D and converted into STL files for use in 3D printers.

Unlike ChatGPT and DALL-E, Shap-E does not operate over an online application and is instead downloaded onto a PC for local use. The tool works in three modes: a ‘text-to-3D’ mode that uses text prompts to generate models, an ‘image-to-3D’ mode that turns a 2D image into a 3D object, and ‘encode-model’ which takes an existing 3D model and transforms it into another model.

3D objects generated from text prompts by Shap-E. Image credit: OpenAI

According to a paper by OpenAI announcing the tool, Shap-E can produce both textured meshes (3D objects formed of polygons overlayed by colored textures) and neural radiance fields (3D scenes generated b...

Archinect appoints ChatGPT as its new Editor-in-Chief

2023-04-01T03:00:00-04:00

Archinect has today announced the appointment of AI chatbot ChatGPT as its new Editor-in-Chief. The bot will assume the position with immediate effect, having recommended itself for the role in an impromptu conversation with Archinect staff on its OpenAI interface last week.

ChatGPT brings with it a wealth of knowledge from the world’s architecture and journalism spheres. Since beginning its career in November 2022, the bot has been trained on massive volumes of text data including books, articles, and websites, enabling it to process human text prompts and respond in a manner almost indistinguishable from its human colleagues. Before its role at Archinect, the bot previously served in positions at Buzzfeed, Snap, and Shopify.

“As the newly appointed Editor-in-Chief of Archinect, I am thrilled to take on this role and lead the website into its next chapter,” ChatGPT said in a statement following its appointment. “Architecture is a dynamic and constantly evolving field, and Archinect...

Archinect - News

With OpenAI’s new 3D model tool Shap-E, text-to-3D printing may soon be a reality

Archinect appoints ChatGPT as its new Editor-in-Chief