Generalized Additive Manufacturing Process Chain

Abstract

Every product development process involving an additive manufacturing machine requires the operator to go through a set sequence of tasks. Easy-to-use “personal” 3D printing machines emphasize the simplicity of this task sequence. These desktop-sized machines are characterized by their low cost, simplicity of use, and ability to be placed in a home or office environment. The larger and more “industrial” AM machines are more capable of being tuned to suit different user requirements and therefore require more expertise to operate, but with a wider variety of possible results and effects that may be put to good use by an experienced operator. Such machines also usually require more careful installation in industrial environments.