3D/Additive Printing Manufacturing: A Brief History and Purchasing Guide

3D printing is recognized as a collection of technologies known as rapid prototyping, solid freeform fabrication, and most commonly, additive manufacturing (AM). With these emerging technologies it is possible to print (but not limited to): architectural models, discontinued car-part foundry pattern...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published inTechnology and engineering teacher Vol. 75; no. 4; pp. 18 - 21
Main Authors Hughes, Bill, Wilson, Greg
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published International Technology and Engineering Educators Association 2016
Subjects
Educational History
Guidelines
Intellectual History
Printing
Purchasing
Technological Advancement
Technological Literacy
Online AccessGet full text

Cover

More Information
Summary:3D printing is recognized as a collection of technologies known as rapid prototyping, solid freeform fabrication, and most commonly, additive manufacturing (AM). With these emerging technologies it is possible to print (but not limited to): architectural models, discontinued car-part foundry patterns, industry-wide prototypes, human tissues, the next generation of photovoltaic panel materials, makeup, costumes for movie characters, hearing aids, braces for teeth, prosthetics, jet engine turbine blades, toys, jewelry and even to decorate pastries at the local bakery. The authors trace the development by examining records in the U.S. patent office that show the roots of modern AM can be traced back for about 100 years. The authors describe the software and printing tools that can be used in the classroom. AM is in the process of incredible growth throughout rapidly expanding sections of manufacturing and technological fields, and in just a few years it has gone from a technology education classroom novelty to a requirement. Teachers in all areas of STEM education fields need to acquire training and keep abreast of advancements in this field, and the article provides an online link to resources. Why?, because looking into students' eyes, teachers must not see just today's technological learners, but rather their future societal potential.
ISSN:2158-0502