3D Printer

Overview
A 3D printer is an additive manufacturing technology that enables automated construction of complex sub-assemblies via layered deposition. The technology is similar to a traditional printer, but with an additional z axis. As a central backbone of Digital Fabrication, the end goal of 3D printers is to be able to print anything.

Details
While 3D printers are additive, they bear a close resemblance to subtractive manufacturing CNC milling machines.

Status
See past work related to Factor e Farm at RepRap Build.

Currently 3D printer designs are being researched, with the goal of full integration into the Product Ecology of GVCS technologies.

3D printer technology is currently undergoing a flourishing of innovation. As a relatively new technology (2003), many experimental designs and techniques are being explored by thousands of groups worldwide.