Additive Manufacturing Technologies

Learn ​Additive Manufacturing Technologies

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is revolutionizing the way products are being made and it is an integral part of what is termed the 4th Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0). Three dimensional (3D) printing technologies such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Vat Polymerization, Binder Jetting or Powder Bed Fusion are examples of AM used for prototyping, small series production or even larger scale applications. Additionally, AM includes supporting software, materials, post-processing, testing and standardization.

It is essential for today’s workforce to have knowledge in these technologies because they are increasingly used in a broad range of industries including aerospace, automotive, radiofrequency (RF) electronics and healthcare/medicine. But also dentists, jewelers, artists or makers increasingly recognize the unique advantage of these tools of the digital age.

The focus of this course will be on giving the students a good understanding of the most widely used AM technologies and their benefits and challenges.   The learning experience will be enhanced by specific case studies of 3D printing processes and of additive manufacturing businesses. The students will learn about open source AM software and emerging software developments relevant to AM. They will also learn about materials choices in AM, the importance of post-processing and the testing of materials properties.

Course Highlights:

• Printing technologies: FDM, Vat Polymerization, Powder Bed Fusion, Binder Jetting  and others
• Application examples from various industries: e.g. Dentistry, Jewelry, Aerospace, Medical, Electronics
• Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) and software relevant to AM, including open source software
• Postprocessing of parts to improve surface finish and materials quality
• AM materials (plastic, metal, ceramic, composite) and health & safety considerations in using various technologies.

Course Benefits:

• Learn the principles and components of the most widely used Additive Manufacturing Technologies.
• Understand the advantages and challenges of each technology and their comparison to traditional manufacturing.
• Recognize AM application areas.
• Experience the process chain from design to final 3D printed product with particular focus on FDM and Vat Polymerization.
• Distinguish AM materials and become aware of AM Health & Safety issues.

Printing Service (Optional): Limited printing resources are available at UCSD for free and there may be an additional cost of about $40 if students decide to use an online printing service.

Course Typically Offered: Online, Spring and Fall quarter 

Prerequisites:  Student should have basic knowledge of physics and chemistry. The students should also have basic computer skills and be able to download (open source) programs.

More information: Contact infotech@ucsd.edu to learn more about course offerings.