3D printing

3D printing is a manufacturing process that builds three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer from a digital model. It enables complex shapes to be made without dedicated molds or cutting tools.

Fused deposition modeling: A 3D-printing process that extrudes a heated thermoplastic filament through a nozzle to form successive layers. It is the familiar filament-based method, with each layer deposited as a continuous bead.
Computer-aided design: The use of digital software to create, modify, analyze, or document designs. A CAD model defines the geometry that a 3D printer will reproduce.
Rapid prototyping: The quick production of physical models or parts to test and refine a design. 3D printing turns revised digital designs into testable parts with little tooling.
CNC machining: Computer-controlled manufacturing that removes material from a workpiece using cutting tools. Machining removes material, while 3D printing adds it to form a part.
Design for additive manufacturing: Design practices that account for the capabilities and constraints of additive production. Parts designed for printing can exploit internal channels, lattices, and consolidated assemblies.
Stereolithography: A 3D-printing process that selectively cures liquid photopolymer resin with light. It builds parts by solidifying resin rather than depositing a filament.
STL file format: A file format that represents a surface as a mesh of triangles. STL files commonly carry printable geometry from design software to preparation tools.
Mass customization: Production of goods tailored to individual needs while retaining some economies of scale. Digital files can vary between printed items without changing a mold or production line.
Injection molding: A manufacturing process that forces molten material into a mold and lets it solidify. Molding has high tooling costs but often produces repeated parts faster at scale.
Topology optimization: A computational method that distributes material within a design to meet specified performance goals. Printing can fabricate lightweight optimized forms that are difficult to make conventionally.

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