While 3D printing may sound like something out of a science fiction movie, the reality is that it is a fairly straightforward concept. Using additive manufacturing, three-dimensional printing turns a digital design into a tangible product. Basically, it’s done by applying thin layers of cement, metal, liquid, or powdered plastic, then fusing the layers together.

To explore the impact of 3D printing, Bored Panda sought insights from Sricharan Chiruvolu, a computer vision engineer specializing in 3D vision, who shared his valuable perspective.

Over the past few years, 3D printing has rewritten the market for common consumer goods. “From phone cases to prosthetics," 3D printing has enabled more personalized and custom-made wares, as noted by Sricharan. "Also, it helps to bring down the production cost for a few products, giving customers more access to distinctive designs.”

Customization can be challenging under traditional manufacturing processes because they rely on predetermined molds and tooling configurations when producing items in large quantities. Consequently, it becomes difficult for them to build or modify their machinery to accommodate every unique design or variation. Conversely, in 3D printing, molding or tools are not required at all.

According to Sricharan, one of the major benefits of this technology is that prototyping costs are greatly reduced using this method. Rather than spending thousands on prototyping, companies can now produce test pieces at a fraction of such prices.

“It has brought about faster distribution of prototypes, thus hastening market entry for new products, while on-demand creation has also prolonged product life for many consumers.”

Traditionally, product design engineers would make mock-ups of products like ergonomic chairs using cardboard or foam. These mock-ups were then given to professional developers, who refined them into functional prototypes. With the development of digital technologies and 3D printing, this technique has evolved. These days, engineers create intricate digital models of products through the use of computer-aided design (CAD) software. The prototypes can be 3D printed straight from these digital models.

Apart from the financial and efficiency gains, 3D printing also has environmental benefits compared to traditional manufacturing methods. Sricharan believes, “Through 3D printing, waste can be reduced by using only the required materials for each product; it also supports local production that could reduce transit-related emissions.”

Compared to traditional techniques such as molding or cutting, where there may be excess material waste, 3D printing constructs objects with only the necessary material. By doing so, waste is reduced and resource efficiency is enhanced.

Further explaining how 3D printing supports sustainable practices throughout the product life cycle, he added, “Many materials used in 3D printing are recyclable or biodegradable, thus offering green alternatives; through simplifying maintenance processes, this technology can help prolong the life of products. This helps reduce overall waste and promotes a circular economy mindset where materials are reused and repurposed rather than discarded.”

Speaking about the benefits of 3D printing in healthcare, Sricharan believes it has the potential to revolutionize medicine. “Advances in bioprinting could make it possible to 3D print organs for transplantation, and more complex medical items will be made using improved multi-material printing.”

In the future, many things can be achieved through 3D printing. “Larger build volumes and faster printing rates will enable 3D printing to be a practical choice for mass manufacturing, opening up previously unheard-of possibilities in a variety of industries. Envision entire neighborhoods filled with quickly and effectively built 3D-printed homes, transforming the housing market and tackling problems like disaster relief and affordable housing.”

Talking about the endless possibilities of 3D printing technology, he concluded, “Furthermore, there is even more potential when artificial intelligence and 3D printing are combined. AI is able to optimize designs for material efficiency, strength, and weight, resulting in products that are not only highly functional and sustainable but also inventive.”

While 3D printing can be beneficial in so many ways, it’s also a great technology to be used on an individual level. These brilliant posts really show how creative people can get with 3D printing. Which one of these creative designs inspires you to get a 3D printer? Don’t forget to upvote the ones you like the most!