3D Printer at the Trade Fair

On November 26, 2014 students of class 11 studying Computer Science and IT Tools visited the India International Trade Fair ( IITF) held at Pragati Maidan. The occasion was to view a live demonstration of a 3 -dimensional printer. Students were highly enthusiastic as it was a novel concept. The printer had been set up in the Innovation Pavilion at Pragati Maidan. The huge pavilion had different and interesting paraphernalia ranging from a flour mill to be used at home to a childs water bottle with an inbuilt water filter which could last upto four years!

When we first laid eyes on the printer it appeared to be a small machine enclosed in a glass case. Little did we know that it could print anything ranging from an Eiffel Tower to a paper weight! Mr. Prasant at the Pavilion explained that 3D printing is based on methods of applying a 2D image on a 3D surface, a system for generating three-dimensional objects by creating a cross-sectional pattern of the object to be formed. He further explained that 3D Printing employs additive layer processes, where successive layers of materials are laid down in different shapes. 3D printing works under computer control and is a limited type of industrial robotics that is capable of carrying out an additive process.

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When the printer started printing a small paper weight, students stepped close to witness the wonder firsthand. Mr. Prasant explained that 3D printing technology is used for both prototyping and distributed-manufacturing with applications in architecture, construction, industrial design, automotive, aerospace, military engineering, civil engineering, dental and medical industries, biotech ( human tissue replacement), fashion, footwear, jewellery, eyewear, education, geographic information systems, food, and many other fields. Even the first working blueprint to produce a plastic gun with a 3D printer was available on a website in May 2013 ( removed later on from the site)!

We were also told that China has committed $500 million towards the establishment of national 3-D printing development institutes. In 2013, Chinese scientists began printing ears, livers and kidneys, with living tissue instead of plastic, successfully using specialized 3D bio- print.

Not only were the students putting forth questions enthusiastically, but the questions were being promptly answered in equal enthusiasm! It was a great experience for both students and their teacher.

Filed by Ms. Meenu Kumar.