3D+Printer

= 3D Printer = toc

Definition
3D printers are devices which can create solid three-dimensional models, using a variety of materials, based on computerized specifications developed with CAD (computer-aided design) software. The models are built in layers, and usually take one or more hours to build.

There are several different technologies used in different types of 3D printers: //stereolithography//, in which liquid polymer is hardened in layers by a laser beam; //fused deposition modelling//, which uses a print head to extrude thermoplastic; //selective laser sintering//, in which granules of powdered material (e.g. nylon, glass, ceramics, stainless steel) are selectively fused together by a laser, layer by layer; and //multi-jet modelling//, which also uses layers of powdered material, and has an inkjet print head to spray on a binding glue (some in colors).

Source: African Technology Development Forum, www.atdforum.org

History
The first 3D printer (stereolithographic) was developed in 1984 by Charles Hull. Today there are several manufacturers of the various types of 3D printers. There is even an "open-source" 3D printer, the RepRap, which is self-replicating, meaning the machine can replicate each of its own parts so that a new RepRap can be assembled.

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Applications
Any industry that relies on producing models or prototypes can potentially benefit from the use of a 3D printer (some, in fact, already do), for example, architects, tool/machinery manufacturers or toy manufacturers. These models can allow potential design flaws to be determined before any actual production is begun. 3D printers can also be useful in the medical and educational fields, and even in the culinary and music arenas (see the videos below). A 3D printer available in a library or information center would serve as an excellent educational tool.

Video - 3d printer makes dessert

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Examples
Below are links to some of the major manufacturers of 3D printers:

Z Corporation RepRap 3DSystems dimension Stratasys Fortus

At ExplainingTheFuture.com, Christopher Barnatt provides an extensive 3D printing directory.

**References**
Barnatt, C. (2011, October 3). 3D Printing. Explaining the future.com: A future shaper's toolbox. Retrieved from http://www.explainingthefuture.com/3dprinting.html

Crawford, Stephanie. //How 3-D printing works//. HowStuffWorks. Retrieved from http://computer.howstuffworks.com/3-d-printing.htm

//Welcome to RepRap.org//. RepRap Wiki. Retrieved from http://reprap.org/wiki/Main_Page