Three-dimensional printing is a method of converting a virtual 3D model into a physical object. 3D printing is a category of rapid prototyping technology. 3D printers are generally faster, more affordable and easier to use than other rapid prototyping technologies.
Applications
The first techniques for rapid prototyping became available in the 1980s and were used to produce models and prototype parts. Today, they are used for a much wider range of applications and are even used to manufacture production quality parts in relatively small numbers.
It is a What You See Is What You Get, process where the virtual model and the physical model correspond almost identically.
Process
Rapid prototyping & Three-dimensional printing takes virtual designs from computer aided design (CAD) or animation modeling software, transforms them into cross sections, still virtual, and then creates each cross section in physical space, one after the next until the model is finished.
Resolution is given in layer thickness and X-Y resolution in dpi. Typical layer thickness is around 0.1 mm, while X-Y resolution is comparable to that of laser printers. The particles (3D dots) are around 50-100 microns in diameter.
From Software to Solid
In additive fabrication, the machine reads in data from a CAD drawing and lays down successive layers of liquid or powdered material, and in this way builds up the model from a series of cross sections.
These layers, which correspond to the virtual cross section from the CAD model, are glued together or fused (often using a laser) automatically to create the final shape. The primary advantage to additive construction is its ability to create almost any geometry (excluding trapped negative volumes).
The standard interface between CAD software and rapid prototyping machines is the Standard Tessellation Language (STL file forma)
The word “rapid” is relative: construction of a model with contemporary machines typically takes 3 to 72 hours, depending on machine type and model size. Used in micro technologies “rapid” is correct, the products made are ready very fast and the machines can build the parts in parallel.
Desktop Solutions
One variation consists of an inkjet printing system. Layers of a fine powder (plaster and resins) are selectively bonded by “printing” a water-based adhesive from the inkjet printhead in the shape of each cross-section as determined by a CAD (computer aided design) file. This technology is the only one that allows for the printing of full color prototypes. It is also recognized as the fastest method.
Alternately, these machines feed liquids, such as photopolymer, also through an inkjet-type printhead to form each layer of the model. These Photopolymer Phase machines employ an ultraviolet (UV) flood lamp mounted in the print head to cure each layer as it is deposited.
A Peek Into the Future
Scientists are working on a prototype printer that can print other electronic devices! Imagine being able to print your own TV remote when it gets lost.
Astonishing advances are being made in the medical industry, with one scientist using gel-like ink to create a working heart
The Food industry is also joining in on the fun, with printable snacks.
Printing is going places you’ve never imagined!
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