Modern 3D Printing Technologies: Future Trends and Developments

Recent developments in three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies have revolutionized various branches of production and manufacturing. 3D printing goes hand-in-hand with cost effective manufacturing, high quality control because it implicates a manufacturing practice with low labor involvement and high precision manufacturing processes. A variety of 3D printing technologies are being introduced to serve the needs of a diverse population like in-house 3D printer for manufacturing of car accessories, 3D printing of human tissues and organs, 3D printing of micro batteries and many more. Moreover, clinics and hospitals are equipped with 3D printers that can 3D print our tooth filling, skin tissue or even a human organ. Repairing or servicing the components of a space shuttle or a space station in the outer space has been a major challenge, since 3D printing uses the process of additive manufacturing it can be a resourceful technology in solving the above challenges. With the major advancements in 3D printing, it is now possible to print micro batteries to power small incest drones and many such devices that are used in stealth operations. Hence, 3D printing can be said as the embodiment of modern manufacturing processes. In this paper, we review the recent technological advancements in materials and in technological aspects of 3D printing, identify future challenges and potential applications in engineering, manufacturing and tissue engineering. A brief discussion is provided on patents filed in different fields such a materials, their applications and industry-wise patent filing trends.