It’s hard to believe that it was way back in the late 1980’s when Charles Hull first invented 3D Printing, or as he called it at the time, “Rapid Prototyping”. His motivation was to invent a way to test a design before investing in a larger manufacturing program. Since then his original technology has come a long way and 3D Printing has secured itself a comfortable spot in the mainstream.
Today the technology is used across a diverse range of fields with businesses now afforded freedom from traditional manufacturing. The almost instant gratification allowed by 3D printing means creativity can flow freely and entrepreneurs can take leaps without limitations.
What’s interesting is that many of us are still not using 3D Printing in our businesses as it’s only recently that the technology has become more accessible in its affordability, particularly to SME’s.
A 3D Printer can be a wise investment for any business that designs and/or manufactures products. The ability to create a product prototype quickly and easily on-site allows you to check for errors and inconsistencies and correct them immediately.
Now is a great time to jump on board and see what 3D Printing can actually do for your business.
Is 3D Printing the Answer for you?
3D printing allows you to transform your digital model in to a solid object within hours. This clever process sees the printer adding material (known as filament) layer by layer until the digital model has become a fully formed 3D solid object.
This process eliminates the need for complex and expensive machinery, and the business applications are wide and varied.
There are a variety of methods used but the most common printing technology is Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). This is because it is a simple process, making it ideal for office use. It is low on mess, uses safe materials and is less expensive to produce.
How is 3D printing being used in business?
Product Design and Manufacturing: Have a client coming for a meeting? Short turn-around time on a brief? Not a problem. Just print your prototype on the spot to show your client before going ahead with expensive production.
For small lot production, or creating hard-to-find replacement parts, 3D printing can save a great deal of time, money and stress.
Architecture and construction: Architects are using 3D printers to create very precise scale models to help visualise projects, including elements that would otherwise be difficult to create.
Education: Schools and universities are some of the greatest adopters of 3D printing technology. With the ability to bring learning materials to life, 3D printing opens doors to engage all students, no matter how they prefer to learn, by helping them solve problems and improve their critical thinking. Students can produce their ideas, analyse and then improve them; maths concepts can be visualised; maps can become interactive and history can come to life.
Medicine: The building of replacement body components is possible with 3D printing.
From creating 3D models for education and treatment planning, to building prosthetic limbs, knee replacements, and perhaps even living organs and tissues – the potential for 3D printing in the medical arena is astounding.
If you are considering purchasing a 3D printer for your business or home, COS is a great place to start the search. Check out COS’ range of 3D printers, scanners, print materials and accessories and let your creativity take over.
