#3d printer in the learning factory how to#
#3d printer in the learning factory professional#

After completing the base layer, the printer adds additional layers until the item is complete. As the 3D printer reads its instructions, it extrudes a plastic filament from a nozzle onto the print bed in the specified manner or a laser melts metallic powder layer by layer to form a part. The process begins with a 3D model: a computer-aided design (CAD) representation of the object that specifies precisely how much material - plastic, metal, clay, or some other substance - needs to be deposited, and where. The additive process, by its nature, is both more flexible and far less wasteful. By contrast, subtractive manufacturing creates components by removing material until the final part is complete. “Think of water dripping from the ceiling of a cave and depositing thin layers of minerals to form stalagmites on the cave floor,” he said.

The process is “additive” because it produces an object by building it up one layer at a time.

The term additive manufacturing, Simpson explained, describes the use of 3D printing to make functional components in a manufacturing setting. “Because of this,” he added, “from a capability standpoint, we are among the top institutions in the world in additive manufacturing, and we continue to expand into new areas as a result.” The ability of Penn State’s researchers to do just that - collaborate with colleagues across disciplines to address every component of a problem and its solution - is a strength of the University, Simpson said. It’s a contact sport you have to rub shoulders and talk to experts in a lot of other disciplines to really do additive well.” “You have to understand the economics, the materials, the design, the process.

#3d printer in the learning factory how to#

“Anyone can buy a printer, learn how to put material in it, and hit go, but designing parts that really take advantage of 3D printing - so they are better, faster, and cheaper than traditionally made components - is another ballgame,” said Simpson. Researchers at Penn State are at the leading edge of the field now known as additive manufacturing, working to advance the capabilities of 3D printing with a goal of addressing pressing problems in human health, housing, and transportation, among other areas. In recent years, however, the technique has grown considerably more sophisticated its products moving beyond just bits and bobs made of plastic to include high-tech items fabricated from metal, concrete, clay, and even biomaterials. Indeed, for about $150, anyone can walk out of a Walmart with a 3D printer capable of creating a growing array of tools, toys, and other trinkets. They can just buy a couple of printers and start making things.” “Entrepreneurs don’t have to invest millions of dollars in machines and equipment. “It democratizes entrepreneurship, especially for hardware-based startups,” said Simpson. For Custer and a growing number of others, 3D printing has lowered barriers to manufacturing. With 3D printing, Vortic can create custom titanium fittings for each unique timepiece using the same machine and placing orders after receiving payment.

#3d printer in the learning factory professional#

With 3D printing, “Vortic was able to give new life to an antique, and create a niche high-end luxury good,” said Simpson, interim department head of the School of Engineering Design, Technology, and Professional Programs and the Paul Morrow Professor in Engineering Design and Manufacturing.Ī big part of the technology’s appeal, Simpson added, is that it allows for a level of customization not possible with traditional manufacturing.

Custer, the piece is a beautiful 1908 pocket watch made in Waltham, Massachusetts, that is encased in a 3D-printed titanium outer shell and fitted with a custom leather strap. Created by Vortic Watch Company, a firm owned by Penn State alumnus R.T. Timothy Simpson is the proud owner of a custom wristwatch, one of only a few made entirely in the United States these days.