Fiveable
Fiveable

3D printing

Definition

3D printing is the process of creating physical objects from a digital model by adding layers of material on top of each other. It allows for the production of complex and customized objects.

Analogy

Imagine you have a virtual Lego set, and instead of building it with your hands, you have a machine that builds it layer by layer using plastic. That's how 3D printing works!

Related terms

CAD (Computer-Aided Design): CAD is the software used to create digital models that can be printed in 3D.

Filament: Filament is the material (usually plastic) that is melted and deposited to create the layers in a 3D print.

Additive Manufacturing: Additive manufacturing is another term for 3D printing, emphasizing the process of adding material layer by layer.

collegeable - rocket pep

Are you a college student?

  • Study guides for the entire semester

  • 200k practice questions

  • Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab



© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.