3D printing can be referred to as method of getting
virtual 3D model printed onto a 2D object. 3D printing falls in the
category of 'rapid prototyping' technology. The function typically
performed by 3D printers is that of printing consecutive layers on the
previous ones for building up a 3D object. It is easier, more
affordable, and faster to use 3D printers as compared to other
technologies related to additive fabrication.
Technologies:
Initially, production of a prototype required a lot of man-hours,
tools, and experienced labor. For instance, after designing a novel
Street Light Luminaire digitally, drawings used to be sent to
accomplished craftsmen where the paper design used to be followed with
utmost pains and a 3D prototype used to be formed in wood through the
utilization of the entire shop that is full of costly tools and working
machinery. One can easily make out that this process consumed a lot of
time. Moreover, the skillful labor was not all that cheap. These
shortcomings necessitated the need of rapid prototyping.
3D
printing has a variation called Inkjet Printing System. It involves
binding of fine powder layers (resins, cornstarch, or plaster) by the
way of printing a gum from inkjet print head as per the shape of every
cross-section as spotted by the CAD file. This is the only technology
allowing full color prototypes to be printed. It is believed to be the
quickest method.
Alternately, liquids are fed by these machines.
Photopolymer is one of such kind. These machines make use of UV
(ultraviolet) flood lamp. It is mounted in print head for curing each
layer on its deposition. FDM (Fused deposition modeling) makes use of
nozzle for depositing molten polymer layer by layer, on the support
structure. The other approach is Selective Fusing of Print Media in the
granular bed. Here, the media that has been unfused supports thin walls
and overhangs in the piece which is being produced, thereby reducing
need for temporary auxiliary supports for the work piece.
Ultimately,
3D Micro fabrication technique having a photo polymerization of
2-photons might be used to make ultra small features. Here, the
preferred 3D object gets traced out by a completely focused laser in a
gel block. The curing of gel into a solid takes place only in places
where laser had been focused, owing to photo excitation's non-linear
nature. The gel that is left out gets washed away.
Resolution:
Resolution is measured in terms of layer thickness. The X-Y resolution
is given in dpi. 100 microns is the characteristic layer thickness. The
X-Y resolution is compatible with laser printers. Diameter of the
particles, i.e. 3D dots is around 50-100 microns.
Applications:
Standard applications are inclusive of design visualization, metal
casting, CAD/prototyping, architecture, geospatial, education,
healthcare, retail/entertainment, etc. Off late, 3D printing technology
is being used in artistic expressions. Its biotechnological
applications include bio-printing, computer-aided Tissue engineering,
and organ printing.
Self-replication: The main purpose behind
using 3D printing technology is its ability to replicate itself. RepRap
is one such printer. It has the ability to print plastic parts and
circuit boards. It is believed to print metals in future.
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