NASA Lunabotics Mining Competition trophy prototype designed by Rocklin HS Students and made with Additive Manufacturing at Sierra College

In response to the explosive growth of 3D Printing, Sierra College Center for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT) published a white paper identifying trends, outlining uses and providing a review of Additive Manufacturing equipment for business and education.

Additive Manufacturing is the ability to generate three-dimensional models that need no machining or tooling. In the 3D printer, layer by layer of material builds up until the desired shape is achieved, instead of cutting away material as is done in machining. Computer 3D drawings are sliced into layers and the software directs the printer pattern as it builds the part from the bottom up. Products can be designed in Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) software or 3D scanners can be used to create designs from existing objects.

The Additive Manufacturing Turning Mind into Matter — Industry Evaluation and Recommendations Report is intended to help both businesses and educators learn more about emerging Additive Manufacturing technologies and can be found at the Sierra College CACT Training website.