Page 55 - ODV Training outline_EN

Additive manufacturing Subtractive manufacturing

By forming or moulding materials into the desired shape with heat and/or
pressure, formative manufacturing processes such as injection moulding and

stamping produce objects. The purpose of formative techniques is to reduce the
marginal cost of producing individual parts; however, establishment costs are
exorbitant due to the need to create custom moulds or machinery for the
manufacturing process. With near-perfect repeatability and the ability to
manufacture components from a wide variety of materials (including metals and
plastics), these processes are nearly always the most cost-effective for mass

production.

In general, at the initial stage of the 3D printing process, a virtual model of the
potential object is created. This design will function as a guide for the 3D printer
to reproduce. Using computer-aided design (CAD) software, which can generate
precise drawings and technical illustrations, the virtual design is developed. A 3D

scanner, which basically takes photographs of an extant object from various
angles to copy it, may also be used to generate a virtual design. Once the virtual
model has been created, printing preparations must be undertaken. Slicing is the
process by which the target is accomplished; the model is divided into numerous

layers. During the slicing process, specialised software divides the model into
hundreds or even thousands of thin, horizontal layers.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the
author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European
Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can
be held responsible for them. Proposal number: 101087107.