3D printing

3D printing

Introduction:

We will introduce you to 3D printing. First we'll talk about how does it works, then the application field and finally finish with the advantages and disadvantages.

How does it work ? 

3D printing is a process of making three-dimensional solid objects from a digital file

3D printing makes it possible to produce complex shapes using less material than traditional manufacturing methods.

It all starts with creating a 3D model on your computer. This digital design is for example a CAD (Computer Aided Design) file. A 3D model is created from scratch with 3D modeling software or from data generated with a 3D scanner.

You will need to prepare a template before it is ready to be printed in 3D. This is what they call slicing. Slicing divides a 3D model into hundreds or thousands of horizontal layers and must be done with cutting software.

Sometimes a 3D model can be cut from a 3D modeling software application.

When your 3D model is cut, you are ready to send it to your 3D printer. This can be done via USB, SD or Wi-Fi. It really depends on the make and type of the 3D printer. When a file is downloaded to a 3D printer, the object is ready to be printed in 3D, layer by layer.

Application field : 

3D printers are used in many areas and are necessary for all people.

They can be used for fashion with the creation of hat, bra, handbag or even shoes. There are fashion accessories such as necklaces and rings that can be derived from 3D printing.

3D printers are also used in medicine to save lives with the use of plastic heart and lungs. They allow simulation on the human body for the progress of medicine. And as we have already seen, there is prosthesis for the hands but also the legs for the disabled to find the use of their limb. There are not only prostheses for humans but also for animals as for dogs.

3D printers can be used in art and history, such as statues, or painting racks. At the beginning of his inventions the 3D printers was used to create figurines and decorative objects. They still serve as decoration but with more practical ideas that can serve us in everyday life like the shell of our phone.

They also serve as important elements in our habitat. In Nantes, there is a house created entirely with a 3D printer which shows the evolution of the technology. Also in a house, they are often used for supports such as bedsprings for the beds or furniture because the plastic is very light which makes it possible not to transport furniture of more than 100 kg but to reduce the weight.

With all the progress, we can now create wonderful things that can help us in our daily lives such as robots, chains or cars.

Avantages or disavantages : 

Avantages:

The first advantage of the 3D printer lies in the fact that everyone can create objects according to their own desires.

- 3D printers will help reduce development costs.

- they will also help to improve living conditions such as people with disabilities. Each person can use this printer to find a solution to their problem. its material is perfect for creating some products that were previously in heavier materials. The possibilities in the world of health are therefore enormous.

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