3D printing technologies overview

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is one method of digital fabrication. Currently, various types of 3D printers are being developed in the world. The 3D printing method involves lamination shaping, which has the advantage of being able to print even a single product with intricate shapes that is difficult to mold using other processing methods. It has great potential for coping with various individual needs that are essential in assistive technology service. The main methods are as follows : Stereolithography (SLA), Material Jetting (MJ), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Binder Jetting (BJ) and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). The FDM method is also known as desktop 3D printing. This paper outlines the features of 3D printers and the process from 3D modeling to printing and describes the required skills for effectively using 3D printing technology.