3D printing technology has completely changed the industrial manufacturing field. In what way? It has been noted that over the years, this technology has developed to the point that mechanical components and some replacement parts can now be printed with professional 3D printers. Furthermore, it has not only impacted the industrial field but is being prospected that it will affect our way of life in the future. Why? Because 3D printer or 3D laser cutter machine technology makes it possible to process a three–dimensional model in a single process.
When we focus our attention on the consumer additive manufacturing level, we find two major 3D printing techniques. The techniques include
- Fused Deposition Modeling
- Stereolithography
These two techniques process objects by adding materials, layer by layer, to make a model. However, stereolithography is known to use a computer-controlled motion laser beam programmed using CAD / CAM software to harden resin exposed to the beam to create a desired three–dimensional shape. Meanwhile, fused deposition modeling uses a thermoplastic filament, which is heated to its melting point through a heated nozzle and then extruded layer by layer to develop a three–dimensional object.
To get these perfect three-dimensional models, they require software. Some printers come with the software, but at the same time, they are compatible with third-party software. There are three types of software. They include;
- CAD computer-aided design software helps users to come up with a design in either 2D or 3D to visualize construction, which will later aid the development, optimization, and modification of the design process. There are different types of CAD software, but there are five in total. Specifically, they include:
- 2D CAD that allows flat drawings of objects
- One for prismatic models
- 3D CAD for 3D objects
- 3D wireframe and surface modeling, which is famous for designing the skeleton-like inner structure
- Solid modeling for solid geometry.
- CAM Computer-aided manufacturing software is a program known to use numerical control to make detailed instructions that drive CNC machines. It streamlines the machining process and automates the cutting, grilling, milling, laser cutting, and 3D printing actions, or in short, it controls any numerically controlled manufacturing system. It can be used in conjunction with product lifecycle management software or CAD.
- The third and last software is the printer control software, which is known to send instructions directly to the printer at a given time, and more specifically, it provides a real-time interface to the functions and settings of the printer.