3D printing has been around since the early 1980s, but it didn't go mainstream until about a dozen years ago, when machines became a whole lot smaller and cheaper. These days, the technology is used to produce everything from simple toys to tools,
clothing, food and even
human organs.
“3D printing is a process that converts digital models into physical objects by depositing materials layer by layer," explains Sagil James, Ph.D., assistant professor of mechanical engineering at
California State University, Fullerton. The conversion process is faster than traditional manufacturing and hundreds of materials can be used; some of the most popular include resin, plastic, nylon, silver, steel and wax.
"With 3D printing, you can come up with an idea, design it on the computer within a day and print it while the idea's still fresh in your mind."
— Fernando Covarrubias, Cal State LA junior
With guidance from faculty, students across the CSU are learning how to use 3D printing to develop innovative projects and gain valuable experience that prepares them for a rapidly changing workplace.
“3D printing is a new, revolutionary or disruptive, technology with significant potential in engineering and other fields," adds Christiane Beyer, Ph.D., associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering and the technical director of the
Innovation Space at
California State University, Long Beach. “The industry is looking for trained graduates coming into the workforce with this knowledge. I don't think there will be any field in which 3D printing won't be used in the future."