Welcome to the world of 3D printing. You might have heard about exciting 3D printed objects but we really need to understand why 3D printing technology is creating waves in recent times. You might have heard about the CNC machines (Computer Numerical Control) which are being used to fabricate complex objects in short time. Numerical programs control the movements of conventional cutting, turning, machining or polishing tools in optimized way to produce complex objects in short time. You are still doing all the conventional jobs being controlled by computer.
Imagine using material of your choice like plastic, paper, binding material like sand or metal powders to form layer after layers in definitive way to build a 3D object instead of cutting a big chunk/ block to produce an object. As mentioned before, conventional manufacturing despite controlled by computer extensively cannot overcome the limitations of movement of the tool fronts. in 3D printing there is no such limitation except limitation of imagination.
Knowing the advantages of the 3D printing it will be interesting to know how it can shape up our future in a major way:
3D printed Wearable
Ever imagined making your own dress or shoes? that reminds you about complex manufacturing process and messy atmospheres of a manufacturing plant. All you wanted is your own styled wearable. 3D printing can come handy for you. There are thousands of ready made designs available. You make your own variations and get your own thing printed. it is going to redefine the world of fashion
Spare parts
Have you ever thought of why we always go for the latest models discarding the models of things? Of course, availability of advanced feature is a criteria. But at the same time there is always a concern in your mind that company may stop making spare parts of the old models. Also, many times companies adjusts their models slightly (almost without a reason) to propel sales of the connected accessories and adopters. Have you ever experienced how difficult it is to maintain your vintage beloved vehicles because of the spare part problems? Well 3D printing is a viable solution to all these problems.
Auto enthusiasts have found a niche in 3-D printing. Mr. McMaster has found that he can save money by printing out custom car parts for his mother, who is restoring a 1966 Mustang Coupe.
Sculpture and architecture
3D printing has gone beyond its infancy. Companies are able to print very fine detail with a high degree of accuracy with a layer thickness of about 16 microns (.0006″ or .016mm)-that’s about 1/5th the thickness of a human hair! Right now the parts are generally made of a resin, but it is expected that soon printing will be possible with glass, ceramic or with metals.
Once the 3D printing technology achieves the ability to use any material and a suitable binder it will be possible to print even houses/ shelters anywhere and even on the moon !!
Artist’s impression of 3D printed dwelling place on the moon
3D printed furniture
