3D printers offer the possibility to create almost anything
3D Printing is always based on the same idea. Each strip of a liquid material that emerges from the printhead is distributed on the X and Y axes. By this process, the first layer of the object is created for the Z axis on the printing plate. With this system, the 3D printer works up the Z axis until a 3-dimensional object is created.
FDM and SLS 3D printing processes
The most widely used extrusion technology for private use is Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). This technique releases heated plastic from the print head, while the head moves on the axes according to the 3 dimensional object. This 3D Printing method is relatively simple, safe and interesting to watch since the printing process is visible and releases relatively non-toxic plastic fumes. This is not the case with other techniques which require a sealed space around the printer.
In addition to FDM, there is also the first type of 3D printing technology created by Chuck Hull. SLS was designed for industrial use and is now available for private users with e.g. the Formlabs 3D Printer using liquid inside a container. The resin is gradually melted with a laser at predetermined points. After each layer, the printing board sinks down leaving new unused fluid to be processed again. Thus, step by step, a 3-dimensional object is created which has many advantages and disadvantages compared to FDM. The main drawback is that the process usually takes more time and handling the liquids is difficult. The advantage is an incomparable accuracy and due to the liquid no support materials are necessary.
Conclusion FDM vs SLS
Both 3D Printing techniques have their own advantages and disadvantages which complement each other. Still, FDM printers are better for home use, while the SLS process remains for dedicated makers with specific needs or businesses.
Technological possibilities
The first step and the basis of 3D Printing was to create 3 dimensional objects layer by layer. The next step is the incorporation of different colors and special materials to e.g. create electronic devices. This functionality is necessary to print high-tech components of our time in the long-term.
One day, buying every-day products could be as simple as downloading music on iTunes today. This concept sounds like the “material compiler” from Star Trek, where objects are almost instantly created. Even if this idea appears far distant, a researcher has been able to teleport particles between two Canary Islands. In this process, the exact information of a particle from location A, 143 km away, was replicated at site B. According to this, what today still appears to us as obscure, one day may become reality.
A killer app is still missing
Although these future opportunities sound promising, the 3D Printing industry is still looking for a so-called killer app. As an example from the computer industry can be seen with VisiCalc from the Apple II. This functionality allowed companies to process entire distribution systems on the computer for the first time. Such an application for the private use of printers, as with computers, could lead to people owning a device in every household. A more realistic way of looking at the near future is that consumers can print out objects online or in the shop. Another possibility that people start out with social fablabs or hubs, which provide 3D printers for the community as Internet cafes did decades ago.