ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING Meaning and
Definition
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Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, refers to the process of creating three-dimensional objects by layering or adding materials together, typically based on a digital model. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods that involve subtracting or removing materials from a larger piece, additive manufacturing constructs objects from scratch, resulting in more efficient and innovative production techniques.
In this process, a digital design of the desired object is created using computer-aided design (CAD) software or obtained through 3D scanning. The design is then divided into multiple cross-sectional layers that are sent to a 3D printer. The printer reads the digital instructions and proceeds to build the object layer by layer, typically using melted plastic, metal powder, or other materials. Each layer is fused or solidified to adhere to the previous one until the complete object is formed. This layer-by-layer construction allows for intricate designs and complex geometries that would be challenging or impossible to achieve using conventional manufacturing methods.
Additive manufacturing has numerous applications across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, architecture, fashion, and consumer products. It offers benefits such as cost reduction, time efficiency, customization, and the ability to create prototypes or one-of-a-kind objects without the need for expensive tooling or molds. Additionally, additive manufacturing enables the production of lightweight yet highly durable structures, making it particularly advantageous for industries where weight reduction and design complexity are critical factors.
Etymology of ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
The term "additive manufacturing" is a compound phrase combining the words "additive" and "manufacturing".
The word "additive" comes from the Latin term "additivus", which means "added or joined to". It is derived from the verb "addere", which means "to add". In the context of additive manufacturing, the term refers to the process of adding layers or materials to create an object, as opposed to subtractive manufacturing, where material is removed or subtracted from a larger piece.
The word "manufacturing" is derived from the Latin term "manufactura", which combines "manus" (hand) and "facere" (to make). It refers to the process of producing goods, typically on a large scale, usually involving various steps, techniques, and machines.
