A 3d printer is a machine that can convert a digital model file into a physical three-dimensional object. It is a cumulative manufacturing technique that creates three-dimensional objects by continuously stacking materials.
3D printers work based on computer control. First, a designer creates a three-dimensional model using computer-aided design (CAD) software and converts it into a digital file. This digital file is then imported into a 3D printer, and the machine builds up the material layer by layer based on the data in the file, ultimately creating the three-dimensional object.
3D printing technology was originally developed by the U.S. Department of Defense to help the military quickly create military equipment. As the technology has evolved and costs have come down, 3D printers are now used in a wide variety of fields, including industrial manufacturing, architectural design, healthcare, education and consumer products.
3D printers use a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, glass and starch. Different types of 3D printers can only use a specific material, while some can use multiple materials.
The emergence of 3D printing technology has brought great convenience to human life and work. It has made the manufacturing process faster, more flexible and more efficient, and has expanded the boundaries of manufacturing. However, with the popularization of 3D printing technology, some legal and ethical issues may also arise, which need to be noted and resolved.
Advantages of 3D printers:
1, without the need for machining or any molds, can be directly from the computer graphics data to generate any shape of the parts, which greatly shortens the development cycle of the product, improve productivity and reduce production costs.
2, can be manufactured in the shape of traditional production technology can not be manufactured, so that people can be more effective design of aircraft wings or heat exchangers and other complex structures.
3, in the case of a good design concept and design process, three-dimensional printing technology can also simplify the manufacturing process, fast and efficient and cheap production of individual items.
4, portable and mobile, can produce a volume larger than itself, while the general production equipment produced by the size of the product will be subject to the constraints of the machine tool.
5, can effectively control costs and reduce material waste.
6, improve production efficiency, do not need to be assembled, saving labor and material costs.
7, can realize confidentiality printing, to protect corporate secrets.
Reference to the above: Baidu Encyclopedia-3d printer