Mouser Electronics has unveiled the newest edition of its Empowering Innovation Together (EIT) technology series, titled "That’s 3D Printed?". This installment delves into how the principles of 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, have evolved, reshaping design, engineering, and production processes with innovative materials, AI integration, and rapid production cycles, while achieving remarkable design accuracy.
The essence of 3D printing lies in its capability to create complex geometries and intricate internal structures that are often impossible to produce with traditional subtractive methods. This technological progress has been accelerated by recent advancements in materials and AI, combined with evolving supply chain demands.
These innovations have paved the way for various applications, including FAA-approved titanium components for engines and biocompatible implants made from advanced materials. For engineers, this newfound creative flexibility offers unprecedented freedom in design, enhanced further through AI-driven tools.
In an accompanying podcast episode of The Tech Between Us, host Raymond Yin engages with Mark Beatty, Founder and CEO of 3D Agility, discussing how 3D printing can revolutionize manufacturing processes and influence equipment lifecycles. Additionally, Stefanie Brickwede, Managing Director of Mobility goes Additive, shares insights on the advances in materials and the expanding applications of additive manufacturing, its advantages, and the hurdles to broader acceptance.
“Additive manufacturing isn’t new, but its impact is accelerating,” Yin comments. “With new materials and AI, engineers can design with higher precision and fewer constraints. This installment explores how these developments are transforming design workflows and addressing real-world supply chain challenges by enabling swift, on-demand production.”
Beyond the podcast, the EIT series features an extensive range of resources, including an in-depth video, technical articles, and related infographics. It aims to explore the diverse applications of additive manufacturing, enabling engineers to devise innovative solutions for on-demand production and efficient manufacturing of customized goods, while also addressing supply chain issues through localized spare parts production.
For more details on 3D printing technologies, check out Mouser’s 3D Printing section.