Scaled applications of 3D printing supporting the society

DESCRIPTION OF THE ENTREPRENEURIAL CASE

Usages of intelligent technologies are directions of smart specialization which can be applied in all counties in Hungary. Accordingly, the smart specialization directions of a county include the national priorities and the intelligent technologies characteristic of the given county. 3D printing (3DP) is an excellent example for innovative technology which unique characteristics provide additive values for all industries. This is the reason why it can be linked to more sectors and why its application fields should be still explored.

In the frame of this case study students should identify fields where 3DP can serve segment of the periphery of society as well as the wealthy stratum. There are many household gadgets which are thrown away although they could be fixed by replacing broken or lost parts. These items should be collected and distribute after making them to operate again by using 3D printing. To finance this activity special customized objects (lampshade, gear stick cover, souvenirs with personal ornaments) could be created and sold for people who could afford this extra for themselves. At the same time a supporting community could be organized which members help each other (e.g. when a part could be replaced by 3D printing and somebody from the community has a sound sample, he could rent it for the time of scanning which shortens the time of modeling). To sum up: one technology serving the needs of several social strata.

Questions that need answers

Technical aspect

Student team will get to know the following topics covering the most important technical knowledge they need to put into the practice the above mentioned activities:

• Working principles of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

• Characteristics of filament types

• FDM printers available at the market

• Types and characteristics of postprocessing

Social aspect