>> Speaker 1: 3D printing technology's
already changing the way we produce objects from tools and
toys to clothing and even body parts. 3D printing is part of a process
known as additive manufacturing, where an object is created by
adding material layer by layer. Additive manufacturing allows
designers to create complex parts for machines, airplanes and
cars at a fraction of the cost and time of standard means like forging,
molding and sculpting. Now, smaller consumer friendly
3D printers are bringing additive manufacturing to home and
businesses.
The first step in 3D printing is create a
blueprint of the object you want to print. You can use modeling software like
Blender to create your own designs or you can visit websites like Thingiverse or Shapeways to find objects
other users have 3D modeled. Once you have a finished design it's
time to send it to the printer. Some printers,
like the MakerBot Replicator 2, have removable bioplastic spools in the
back of the device almost like a string. When the printer receives the data,
it pulls the material through a tube, melts it, and deposits it to the plate,
where it instantly cools. >> [MUSIC] >> Speaker 1: As you can see the 3D
objected is created through layering where the printer will add one layer
of the object at a time until you have a fully formed structure. >> [MUSIC] >> Speaker 1: The most common material
used in 3D printing is plastic. But the use of some other
materials allow for the creation of some pretty amazing
products beyond simple tools and toys. 3D printing food is
becoming very popular and additive manufacturing has allowed for the
creation of some pretty intricate treats.
In the medical world, doctors are testing
bio-materials for regenerative medicine. By using a patient's cells, doctors could 3D print small
body parts like ears and noses. Some surgeons have even tested 3D
printed organs for transplants. Recently, giant 3D printers in China,
printed ten houses in just one day. And at a cost of less
than $5,000.00 per house. Proving just how cost and
time efficient 3D printing can be. For more on 3D printing,
check out Mashable's latest coverage. And don't forget to watch the other
videos in our Mashable explain series.
