D printing technology is used to manufacture prototypes, tools, and end-user parts directly from a CAD design. This printing technology offers unprecedented flexibility as it can create a part of any dimension out of any material. Some of the 3d printing materials used include metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and many more. The 3D printing technology has complete control over material composition, surface texture, and micro-structure of the prototype. 3D printing technology also allows the user to construct prototypes using two different materials. >
Lets take a look at this amazing technology and how it has affected the field of architecture and medicine:
3D printing for Architecture
Architects know that there is nothing like a physical model of a building when it comes to displaying their work or design concept. Physical models also play an important role when it comes to explaining and convincing the customer while selling a project.
3D printers are affordable and high quality solutions for architects. Building a physical model requires great deal of expertise, precision, and time. 3D printing machines help designers focus on their building design, while the devices make 3D models of the project.
Many architects are not tech-savvy and are not used to operating complex devices. 3D printers do not require human intervention at any stage of the printing process. Architects just need to need to draw a CAD diagram of the project and instruct the 3D printer to build a 3D model. The 3D printer can print the model within a few hours, which can then be presented to the client.
3D printers are capable of producing of 3D models with accuracy and speed without compromising on the finer details of the architectural project. The price of desktop 3D printing machines is not that high and independent architects can also afford them.
3D printing for Medicine
The application of 3D printing technology can also be found in the production of medical devices. There are different 3D printing materials available that can be used to build real parts. For example, manufacturing hearing aids is a complex process because they are custom-fit devices and cannot be mass produced. 3D printing greatly helps in such matters where medical devices need to custom-fit a patient.
The future of the 3D printing technology is very bright. Market experts state that 3D printing technology will be affordable to the masses by the next decade. The prices of 3D printing devices are falling rapidly, and it is believed that the prices of 3D printers will drop by as much as 80% in the next 5-10 years. It will not be a surprise to see 3D printing devices in each household just like refrigerators, washing machines, and televisions.