You’ve no doubt often used printers for school papers and reports. But can you imagine printing a three-dimensional object – something as complex as an action figure or a human heart? Soon such creation might be (almost) as simple as hitting Ctrl + P.

3D technology – from the new immersive animated movies to breakthrough medical imaging software – has been in the news a lot lately. So what about 3D printers? These remarkable devices, which possess the ability to print a three-dimensional object, have actually been around since the 1980s, aiding countless engineers and designers. But only recently have they become much faster, smaller, and more affordable.

Most 3D printers work by depositing molten polymer (a flexible substance like plastic or rubber) layer by layer into a support structure – often a special reusable powder. The print specifications are sent from a computer, using computer-aided design (CAD) software, like SolidWorks and AutoCAD, which allow engineers to realize their designs in virtual form. Here’s a brief video that demonstrates the process of printing a 3D object:

A 3D printer was also featured in an episode of CSI: New York, in which a scientist reconstructs a bullet from the crime scene:

So what does the future hold for 3D printing? The technology may soon have uses that go beyond rapid prototyping and forensics to something even more extraordinary: organ printing. That’s right –soon, biomedical engineers may be able to print whole lungs, kidneys, and even hearts using the patient’s own cells. The engineering firm Organovo has developed a 3D machine that would be able to create new organs “on demand.” Check it out here:

What’s next? The RepRap Project is an initiative that aims to develop a printer that can print replicas of itself. That’s all well and good, but if you’re like us, you look forward to the day when Chinese takeout and delivery pizza will materialize before your eyes. We’re keeping our fingers crossed – and print cartridges ready.
Banner Image courtesy of Z Corp

Filed under: e-News, Materials

Tags: 3D, Materials, Technology