The 3D Printer

1555 Words4 Pages

Project description

The 3D printer is quickly beginning to revolutionise the way people can become their own engineer. 3D printing is a quick and convenient way to create prototypes and models, as well as building replacement parts and new creations out of ABS plastic. The UP Plus 2, made by 3D Printing Systems, is the new and improved version of the previous model, the UP Plus. Made in 2013, it was to be completely redesigned and be made faster, more accurate and easier to use for the consumer in comparison to the original. The 3D printer is an example of a combination of mechanical and electrical engineering, which are my disciplines of interest.

I have used a 3D printer quite a lot, and I find that it is so useful for making little things that you can’t go out and buy. I have worked on modelling projects for school and designed custom-made things for around the house. This could be the future – creating objects and having parts at your disposal in your home or office. Models can be drawn up with most 3D modelling software, and some programs, such as Google SketchUp are free and easy to use. This makes the Up Plus 2 easy for the consumer to use and makes modelling and designing more convenient with accurate results.

Role of a typical engineer

An engineer is someone who creates and designs things to make either a more sustainable, practical alternative for something already existing, or to create something completely new to meet a need. An engineer takes problem and dreams up, draws up and builds a solution. Engineers have shaped our modern lifestyles and are, essentially, changing the world.

Essential disciplines of engineering

Mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineering is the discipline that I personally am most int...

... middle of paper ...

... we already have. There are no limits when it comes to what can be created. Even large-scale models can be broken down into smaller pieces and stuck together. One example being a metre-tall model of the Eiffel Tower made solely out of parts printed with the UP Plus 2.

Potentially, this could be the beginning of changing the world when it comes to that little light bulb that pops in your head. All around the world there is are children without clean water. What if someone came up with a revolutionary idea and alternate way to filter water? With a 3D printer they could come up with a design and if it was small enough for a only few pieces each item, the printer could be used it print off numerous pieces all at once and use the new creation to give these children clean water. Imagine the possibilities of the printer and how they could change the way people live.

Open Document