How Is 3D Printing Being Used Today?

Even though the invention of 3d printing is considered great in itself, several innovative minds have put 3D printing to a greater use that has benefitted the world even off-planet. The procedure of how it works has put us in awe but what is even more fascinating is the ability to create anything and everything. The way 3D printing is being used today will make your head spin, so let’s find out!

3D Printing Applications

1- Healthcare 

Who knew decades ago that a printer would transform traditional healthcare to survive a pandemic? It is being extensively used in the face of COVID, wherein the printer is being put to use for producing 3D-printed face shields. The swift mobilization of this technology has helped in responding to emergencies. It has not only turned out to be cost-effective but offers promising solutions to conserve precious resources.

3D printing applications in the world of medicine have done wonders as it ranges from bioprinting to medical devices like prosthetics. This new generation of prosthetics has been an absolute game-changer that has helped transform the lives of many. Not only has it contributed to the convenience factor but it has upped its game in the fashion industry with the creation of designer prosthetics.

2- Fashion Industry

The fashion industry is no exception as the technology of 3d printing has paved its way into the world. 3D printing in fashion is used to create accessories such as costume jewelry with intricate and complex geometric designs. Prototyping and tools are two common uses of professional 3D printers. Prototyping designs has given designers the free pass to come up with innovative designs. Earlier through 3d printing, jewelry was limited only to plastic, but thanks to advanced additive manufacturing techniques in metal it is possible to design and execute delicate accessories.

Several shoe companies such as Nike and Adidas are taking a step in the direction as they are leveraging 3D printing in the footwear industry. This is seen as a step towards personalization as 3D printing has allowed it to structure according to individual preference. This mass customization is transforming the way design and manufacturing works.

Louis Vuitton has gone the extra mile by coming up with a 3D print pop up store. It uses 3D printing to produce tools that ensure their products are produced efficiently and elegantly.

3 – Aerospace Industry 

3D printing in the aerospace industry is used as an intent to create parts that are stronger and lighter than parts made using traditional manufacturing. Taking Aerospace safety into consideration, Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) creates strong and durable thermoplastic 3D models with fire-retardant properties.

Airbus adopted 3D printing technology for plane parts. It is extensively used to finish its plane interiors. They produce the parts that can be “seamlessly integrated” into the decor of the interior of the plane. The technology has found its niche in the aviation industry, Finnair has used 3D printing for small-batch manufacturing in its aircraft. The aircraft has integrated 3D printed spacer panel parts to fill in overhead storage gaps.

4- Edibles 

Chocolates made from a 3D printer? Yes, you read that right. The printing era has taken chocolate to a whole new level. Chocolate 3D printers work with CAD files, but instead of a filament, it uses a syringe during the procedure. 

A Ukrainian architect-turned-pastry-chef Dinara Kasko is known for her striking geometric 3D printed pastries. But she isn’t the only one printing food, Foodini a 3D food printing kitchen creates personalized printed food too. 

Another ingenious way of vegan alternatives to meat where, Giuseppe Scionti, the Italian founder and CEO of  Barcelona-based Nova Meat, developed a technique to 3D print meat that can duplicate the texture of beef or poultry using vegetable proteins. 

5 – Education

3D  printing in education has paved a way for learning critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 3D printers are seen as a facilitator imparting real-world experience and knowledge in the field of engineering, math, science, and architecture. 3D printing technology at the grass-root level is expected for students to adopt a practical hands-on approach. What is even better is that students can create prototypes without the usage of any expensive tools. This has been considered significant for design students in their artwork. Students do not only get to explore design but engineering, and architectural principles. As for discovering historical facts, they can duplicate museum items and get a 3-dimensional perspective on topographic maps.

While this does sound jaw-dropping, what’s even more fascinating is that 3D printing is being put to use right at home!