3D printers
Layer-by-layer makers
3D printers are machines that create three-dimensional objects by depositing material layer by layer, following digital design files.
Unlike traditional manufacturing that cuts away from solid blocks, 3D printers build up from nothing—a process called additive manufacturing.
Home models work mainly with plastic filaments, while industrial versions print in metal, ceramic, or biological materials.
She 3D-printed replacement parts for her dishwasher.
Pushing through a die
- layeringForming successive strata
- slicingCutting into portions
- nozzleFlow-directing pipe fitting
- infillMaterial closing gaps
supports · rafts · overhangs · print speed · retraction · cooling · curing · post-processing
Very thin thread
- ABSAnti-lock braking system
- nylonSynthetic textile polymer
- resinViscous plant secretion
- carbon fiberReinforced polymer composite
PVA · ceramic · flexible · composite · biodegradable · soluble
UV resin 3D printing
- CADTechnical drawing technology
- G-codeMachine tool instructions
- thermoplasticsPlastics remoldable by heating
- resinViscous plant secretion
One who produces
- tinkeringCasual, unskilled adjusting
- DIYAmateur home projects
- EnderOne who concludes
- miniaturesTiny representations of larger things
figurines · upgrades · mods · community · open-source · enclosure
Quick fabrication of preliminary models
- iterationRepeated procedural pass
- mockupPreliminary design representation
- proof-of-conceptFeasibility demonstration
- scale modelProportionally reduced reproduction
preproduction · fit check · beta testing · design iteration · maquette
Tailoring to individual needs
- bespokeMade to individual specifications
- custom-fitAdjusted to individual specifications
- made-to-orderCreated to individual specifications
- one-of-a-kindHaving no equivalent
tailored · prosthetics · orthotics · jewelry · adaptive devices
Forceful interruption of process
- breakthroughSudden important advance
- cutting-edgeAt innovation's forefront
- revolutionarySeeking fundamental systemic change
- game-changerSomething transforming everything
extrusion
Pushing through a die
infill · supports · rafts · overhangs · print speed · retraction · cooling · curing · post-processing · sanding
filament
Very thin thread
carbon fiber · PVA · ceramic · flexible · composite · biodegradable · soluble
stereolithography
UV resin 3D printing
- CADTechnical drawing technology
- G-codeMachine tool instructions
- thermoplasticsPlastics remoldable by heating
maker
One who produces
miniatures · figurines · upgrades · mods · community · open-source · enclosure
rapid prototyping
Quick fabrication of preliminary models
- iterationRepeated procedural pass
- mockupPreliminary design representation
- proof-of-conceptFeasibility demonstration
scale model · preproduction · fit check · beta testing · design iteration · maquette
personalization
Tailoring to individual needs
- bespokeMade to individual specifications
- custom-fitAdjusted to individual specifications
- made-to-orderCreated to individual specifications
one-of-a-kind · tailored · prosthetics · orthotics · jewelry · adaptive devices
disruption
Forceful interruption of process
- breakthroughSudden important advance
- cutting-edgeAt innovation's forefront
- revolutionarySeeking fundamental systemic change
- maker hardwareArduino, Raspberry Pi, microcontroller, microcontrollers, breadboard
- technologyelectronics, computing, computer, internet, social media
- makerspaceslaser cutter, laser cutters, CNC machine, CNC machines, soldering station
- 3D printingfilament, ABS, slicer, G-code, extruder
- automationautomation, macros, macro, automate, hotkeys
- edtecheducational software, online classes, Moodle, STEM, learning platforms
3D printersCNC machines
Computer-guided manufacturing equipment
milling machines · lathes · laser cutters · plasma cutters · carving tools
3D printershand tools
Unpowered grip-operated devices
handcraft · traditional craftsmanship · hand carving · pottery wheel · blacksmithing