The new frontier for design and manufacturing is in three dimensions. Additive manufacturing, also known as 3-D printing, opens up a new world of design never before possible.
UNC-TV Media
Video:
Reporter's Blog:
Engage
Explore
Have students explore additive manufacturing by bringing in toothpaste tubes and creating layers of toothpaste on top of a piece of cardboard or a paper towel.
Explain
Watch the NC Science Now video 3D Frontiers.
Extend
Additional Links:
- Open for Business: 3-D Printer Creates First Object in Space — NASA
- Center for Additive Manufacturing and Logistics — NC State University
- Three Ways to Print in 3-D — National Geographic
- The Technology That Will Eliminate the Need for Organ Donors — PBS
Evaluate
Discussion Questions:
- What is “additive manufacturing,” and how does it differ from traditional manufacturing?
- Describe two methods two of 3-D printing.
- What is an example of engineering optimization shown in the video?
- Critical Thinking: Review the NASA link, and consider the following question: NASA’s International Space Station manufactured and produced the first 3-D object in space in 2014. Theorize three ways in which this advance can impact future space exploration. Are there challenges as well as advantages associated with 3-D printing in space?
