Technological Evolution in Additive Manufacturing: From Three-Dimensional to Multidimensional Printing Systems

Abstract

Though conventional 3-Dimensional (3D) printing or additive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a disruptive technology, the printed components are functionally limited due to their static nature. Fortunately, the expansion of this technology in multiple dimensions will result in dynamic functional structures. 4-Dimentional (4D) printing adds a temporal dimension to 3D printed components, using technologies such as shape-memory polymers (SMPs) to enable the components to deform over time. 5-Dimentional (5D) printing is similar to 3D printing, but the build plate tilts on two additional axes that can angle the print in such a way that support structures are not needed. 6-Dimentional (6D) printing, in a similar way to 4D printing relative to 3D printing, enables 5D printed components to change over time. 7-Dimentional (7D) printing can produce complex, fine, and intricate products that traditional manufacturing methods cannot achieve. These technologies can be used in medical applications such as organ replacement and bone grafting, as well as in the food industry to achieve ideal colours, flavours, and nutritional components.