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Supercharg3d
book

Supercharg3d

by Len Pannett
March 2019
Beginner to intermediate content levelBeginner to intermediate
256 pages
7h 11m
English
Wiley
Content preview from Supercharg3d

CHAPTER THREEWhere Is 3D Printing Heading?

During its first two decades as a tool for rapid prototyping, the types and durability of materials, quality, cost, and speeds of 3D printing meant that it wasn't suitable for any other purpose. Engineers and designers came to embrace its ability to make prototypes for confirming form, fit, and function, or simply to have something to show people. Enthusiasts were more ambitious, and they set about thinking of what else could be done. Since then, the original set of materials has expanded, the range of technologies and their characteristics and capabilities have widened, and the competence of designers has deepened. The result is that 3D printing has stepped outside of its rapid prototyping sphere into mainstream manufacturing.

That 3D printing has already changed many industries is clear. It is an established production technique in sectors from transport and jewelery to dentistry and space, and more sectors are adopting it. To better realize its disruptive effect, significant improvement is needed in the three main technical areas of hardware, software, and materials. As those continue to mature, all engineering, manufacturing, and technology industries will be affected over the coming years if they haven't already been so. Given the billions of dollars in investment in these three areas, progress is practically assured sooner or later. Trying to divine how 3D printing will develop, and where and what its impact will be, requires looking ...

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Publisher Resources

ISBN: 9781119532354Purchase book