CHAPTER 2: LOOKING AT COMPUTERS: UNDERSTANDING THE PARTS Web Project 3: 3-D Prin
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Question
CHAPTER 2: LOOKING AT COMPUTERS: UNDERSTANDING THE PARTS Web Project 3: 3-D Printing One of the most exciting innovations in printing today is the 3-D printer. These 3-D printers are used in marketing, consumer goods, medicine, and so on. Research using the Internet for more information on exactly how 3-D printers work and the most recent uses for them. Write a short paper describing how they work and their uses. Include some ideas of what you think they might be used for in the future. Follow your instructor's directions for proper formatting of your research. Suggested Websites (Use the Suggested Keywords to Search in Following Links) 3dprinting.com makeuseof.com 3dprintingindustry.com techrepublic.com forbes.comm Suggested Keywords 3d printing, what are 3d printers used for, innovative uses for 3d printers, future of 3d printers, different applications of 3d printingExplanation / Answer
3D printing is a misnomer for the process as it is a sub manufacturing process also termed as additive manufacturing, which is a more suitable description. The term additive refers to a part of the process whereby thin layers between 16 to 180 microns or more successively added to create an object. almost all 3D printing Technologies utilise this methodology for construction of an object layer by layer to create the final product which may be of a complex shape and structure.
This process of additive manufacturing involves three main steps:
the first step involved in the preparation stage before the process of printing begins which consists of designing of 3D model of the object to be printed by utilising suitable software such as Computer aided design with the 3D scanner or a ready to print image may also be purchased from the online Marketplace.
The second step consists of the actual process of printing for which to begin the material needs to be selected on the basis of the specific properties required within the finished product to achieve optimal output commensurate to requirement. The variety of materials which can be utilised for 3D printing is extension consisting of different grades of ceramics, resins, metals, plastics, sand, biomaterials, glass, textiles, food and even Lunar dust. Itiffin L and T option of utilising different materials and methods for finishing of the product to provide a look different from the integral material used for manufacturing. This results in extreme flexibility in the look of the finished product leading to exceptional levels of satisfaction with the end result as it allows Precision engineering within simple products. Some of the materials however, may not be easily accessible as the technology is in the developmental stages.
The final step involved the finishing process which requires very specific skills and materials as it may involve extensive work in the form of lacquering, painting, and filing through sanding to achieve the desired final result.
The technology which is utilised for the process of printing depends upon the material which is selected for the project. For use of plastic or alumide fused deposition modelling Technology or SLS Technology is utilised. 4 models made with raising of wax photo polymerization technique which involves solidification of photosensitive raising by means of UV light is utilised. the method employed maybe stereolithography, digital light processing, multi Jet printers or continuous liquid interface production. If the object is to be created with metal direct metal laser sintering, electron beam melting or digital light processing is used. Multi colour products are created with processes such as Binder jetting, selective deposition lamination, or triple jetting Technology.
3D printing being an innovator Technology with extensive uses and advantages which can clearly overcome most disadvantages of traditional manufacturing for specific products and tasks. It also has the ability to manufacture objects which would be impossible with traditional manufacturing processes making manufacturing and creation of shapes and objects as easy as taking a printout of a document with optimum precession and exceptionally satisfactory end results. The major advantages that it can be applied to Complex geometry, integrated assembly, mass customisation and Engineering redesign. It provides endless possibilities and is set to completely take over the manufacturing process of every type and at every level.
Presently 3D printing applications are being utilised within architecture and construction for presenting beautiful and durable models which allow for an exact replica to be made and presented not only for promotional purposes but to envisage all drawbacks and opportunities for redesign before beginning the actual project. Within the maritime industry prototyping and improved spare part management for ship building resulting in availability of every spare part perfectly matched and great reduction in cost. Within the healthcare in medical industry it is safe to create great benefits and advantages for custom prosthetics along with models with utility is guides for surgical procedures and for education of medical professionals. Within the chemical industry enlargement of molecular structures and mechanical parts used within Laboratories is a major application. functional prototypes and final products like 3D printed gears along with mechanical parts to be machined is a major application in mechanical engineering. Within the food industry also it provides flexibility to implement unique requirements and choice for all tools and machinery. The scope for Application of additive Engineering is fast and scan cover every possible segment including education, Aeronautics and space, Hi-Tech products, drones, retail energy, Automotive, textile and fashion, Robotics optics, industrial goods, entertainment and broadcasting and electronics and etc etc etc. The application of this absolutely fantastic and dynamic innovation is endless. It could replicate the universe one day.