An analysis of 3D-printing familiarity among students in a Technical University

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing, also known as additive manufacturing, can be any 3D printing processes. Products created by commercially available 3D printing machines are mainly from plastics and macromolecule materials. Since the 3D printing technology is widespread, the application of 3D printers can be seen in all kinds of businesses, such as private enterprises, government offices, laboratories, and educational institutions. If the 3D printing technology can be included in regular curricula, students’ learning motivations and achievements can be enhanced. The present study investigated technical university students’ cognition about 3D printing, and proposed a low-cost 3D-metal powder printer for instructional purposes in order to improve 3D printing engineering education in Taiwan.