Course Content
Module 2: 3D Printers & Materials
This section gives an overview of the various 3D Printer components, 3D Printer types and materials.
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Module 3: 3D Printing File Types
This lesson provides a comprehensive understanding of the myriads of file extensions in the 3D Printing.
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Module 4: Introduction to 3D Modeling
Start designing your own printable objects with easy-to-use modeling tools. This module introduces you to beginner-friendly 3D modeling software and teaches you how to create objects that are optimized for the printing process.
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Module 5: Slicing and G-Code
Before printing, models need to be sliced into printable layers. Learn how slicing software works, how to adjust print settings like layer height and infill, and how the slicer generates the G-code that your printer uses to build the object.
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Module 6: The Print Process
Now it’s time to bring your models to life. Learn how to set up your printer, load materials, calibrate settings, and start your first print. This module also covers how to identify and fix common printing issues like warping or layer shifting.
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Module 7: Post-Processing
After printing, your model might need some finishing work. Discover how to remove supports, sand rough edges, paint your models, and combine printed parts into assemblies. These techniques can take your prints from good to great.
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Module 8: Introduction to 3D Scanning
Learn how physical objects can be digitized using 3D scanning technology. This module introduces different scanning methods, software for cleaning and editing scan data, and how scanning is used in design, repair, and reverse engineering.
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Module 9: Real-World Applications
Explore how 3D printing is transforming industries like healthcare, automotive, education, and aerospace. See case studies and examples of how professionals use 3D printing to solve real problems and prototype new ideas.
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Module 10: The Business of 3D Printing
In this module, students explore how 3D printing extends beyond the workshop and into the world of business, sustainability, and emerging markets. From eco-conscious manufacturing to digital entrepreneurship, learners discover how additive manufacturing is reshaping supply chains, product development, and global commerce. The module begins by examining sustainability trends, showing how 3D printing reduces waste, supports local production, and enables environmentally friendly materials. Students then move into the future of additive technologies, including bioprinting, AI-driven design, and off-planet construction. The module also highlights how 3D printing enables new business models—from custom product startups and digital part libraries to contract printing services and hybrid manufacturing workflows. Students gain insight into market opportunities, value propositions, and the strategic use of 3D printing to create value across industries. Whether learners aim to start a business, join an innovative company, or simply understand the economics behind additive manufacturing, this module equips them with the tools and trends that define the future of 3D printing as a business.
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Private: 3D Printing Fundamentals.

🎯 Lesson: 3D Printing in Industry, Medicine, and Education

🧠 Focus: Discover how 3D printing is transforming key sectors—from streamlining manufacturing to enabling life-saving medical solutions to enhancing classroom learning.


✅ Lesson Summary

3D printing is not just for hobbyists—it’s a transformative force across various professional domains. In this lesson, we’ll explore how additive manufacturing is being used in industrial production, medical fields, and educational environments, with real-world examples and emerging innovations.


🎓 Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

  • Identify how 3D printing is applied in manufacturing, healthcare, and classrooms

  • Describe the advantages 3D printing brings to each field

  • Recognize challenges and limitations within each use case

  • Explore future trends and opportunities in professional 3D printing


📘 Lesson Content


🏭 1. 3D Printing in Industry

Key Use Cases:

  • Rapid Prototyping: Companies use 3D printing to quickly iterate on design concepts, drastically cutting down product development time.

  • Tooling and Jigs: Custom manufacturing aids such as fixtures, jigs, and templates can be printed on demand.

  • End-Use Parts: With advancements in materials, final components (e.g., ducting, brackets, housings) are now produced directly using technologies like SLS or MJF.

  • Spare Parts and On-Demand Production: Manufacturers can print obsolete or low-volume parts without maintaining large inventories.

Benefits:

  • Lower lead times and development costs

  • More agile supply chains

  • Customization without added complexity

  • Material efficiency (less waste)

Example Industries Using 3D Printing:

  • Automotive (e.g., Porsche, BMW)

  • Aerospace (e.g., GE Aviation prints engine components)

  • Consumer products (e.g., Adidas 3D-printed midsoles)


🏥 2. 3D Printing in Medicine

Key Applications:

  • Prosthetics: Customized, lightweight prosthetic limbs tailored to individual patients.

  • Surgical Guides: Printed templates used to guide surgeons during complex procedures, improving accuracy.

  • Anatomical Models: Patient-specific models of organs and bones help in diagnostics and pre-surgical planning.

  • Implants and Bioprinting: Titanium or polymer implants are 3D printed for spinal, dental, and orthopedic use. Experimental research into printing tissues and organs is advancing quickly.

Benefits:

  • Personalization for patient needs

  • Reduced surgical time and improved outcomes

  • Affordable solutions for developing regions

  • Enhanced medical education and training

Case Study:

  • e-NABLE project: Open-source prosthetics for children with limb differences

  • Mayo Clinic and 3D heart models: Surgeons use printed hearts to plan pediatric procedures


🎓 3. 3D Printing in Education

Applications:

  • STEM Learning: Students explore geometry, engineering, and programming through design and 3D fabrication.

  • Project-Based Learning: Enables real-world problem solving—e.g., designing assistive devices, architectural models, or robotics components.

  • Accessibility in Design Education: Students with limited access to lab equipment can still prototype physical ideas quickly.

Benefits:

  • Tangible learning and creativity

  • Encourages critical thinking and innovation

  • Prepares students for careers in engineering, architecture, and manufacturing

  • Democratizes technology in underserved schools

Implementation Examples:

  • Middle schools using Tinkercad for engineering basics

  • Universities offering full prototyping labs (e.g., MIT Fab Labs, Carnegie Mellon’s maker spaces)

  • Teachers printing educational models (e.g., molecules, fossils, historical landmarks)


📊 Comparison Chart

Field Use Cases Benefits Challenges
Industry Prototypes, tooling, production Speed, cost savings, flexibility Material certification, scalability
Medicine Prosthetics, implants, training Personalization, improved outcomes Regulatory approvals, bio-printing limitations
Education STEM, project learning, modeling Engagement, skill development Cost of equipment, teacher training

🧠 Summary

3D printing is changing how we build, heal, and learn. From aircraft parts and prosthetic limbs to 3D-printed school projects, additive manufacturing is leaving its mark across nearly every sector. Understanding its applications helps us appreciate its potential—and prepare for a future where digital fabrication is everywhere.


📂 Optional Activities

Assignment:

  1. Choose one of the three sectors covered.

  2. Research a real company, school, or hospital using 3D printing in that field.

  3. Write 1–2 paragraphs summarizing:

    • What they print

    • What benefits they’ve experienced

    • Any limitations they face

  4. Share with the class via the LMS discussion board.


📎 Additional Resources

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