3-D printer

3-D printer definition - computer

See 3D printer.



3D printer definition - computer

A machine that creates a plastic or metal part one layer at a time (the additive fabrication method). Used mostly for quickly creating prototypes and molds, 3D printers are also used to build final parts. A variety of different technologies are used to form the layers. For details, see 3D printing.


_3DPTRS1.JPG


_3DPTRS2.JPG


Large and Small

3D printers come in all sizes from self-standing units to desktop printers. Chuck Hull (top) pioneered rapid prototyping in the mid-1980s with his stereolithography technology. The first low-cost desktop printer is expected in 2009 from Desktop Factory (bottom) at a retail price of $4,995. (Top image courtesy of 3D Systems, Inc., www.3dsystems.com) (Bottom image courtesy of Desktop Factory, Inc., www.desktopfactory.com)






Computer Desktop Encyclopedia THIS DEFINITION IS FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY
All other reproduction is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.
Copyright © 1981-2009 by Computer Language Company Inc. All rights reserved.

Comments


Do you have more to add? Sign in to share your linguistic knowledge or observation.

Connect with Facebook