President Joe Biden recently visited Cincinnati to meet with manufacturers, according to WCPO. WCPO later reported that additive manufacturing, known more colloquially as 3D printing, was the focus of the visit.
As we pointed out in our previous post on the subject, 3D printers are automated manufacturing devices capable of producing a variety of objects based on digitally uploaded diagrams. According to WCPO's reporting, the Greater Cincinnati area could very well become a hub for 3D printing. Many communities have already made investments in additive technology programs in an effort to stimulate interest among students: "The Tri-State is proving to be ideal for young people to manufacture their own dreams with the technology." The article goes on to interview a local student from Anderson High School who is particularly passionate about the technology.
Let's explore some of the ways people can get involved with additive manufacturing.
Three Dimensional Opportunities
Anyone from any age group who is interested in 3D printing should check out the Cincinnati Public Library's Maker Space, which currently sports two 3D printers. The printers are free to use, although patrons need to pay for materials and reserve a time to use the machines. The printers allow you to design your own diagram files, bring in compatible files or use diagrams from a handy catalog. This is a great, accessible way for curious members of the public to try out the technology.
In addition, primary and secondary students who are interested in the technology can join one of the 49 3D printing clubs in the Greater Cincinnati STEM Collaborative (GCSC). A non-profit in partnership with Proctor & Gamble as well as several local universities and organizations, GCSC offers after-school programs throughout the area for tech savvy students, in both 3D printing and other STEM related fields.
For adults, there are plenty of opportunities as well. Cincinnati State offers certifications in additive technology through their workforce development program. Moreover, engineering students at the University of Cincinnati have access to 28 3D printers at the university's 3D Print Farm, which they can use for school projects and their own experiments. Northern Kentucky University also sports its own maker space, complete with additive manufacturing tech as well as other crafting technology.
3D Printing for Business
As the technology has developed, it has blossomed from a curiosity among tech nerds into a fully viable means of producing and supplying industrial parts. Several private firms in the Cincinnati area, such as Cincinnati Incorporated, Computer Aided Technology and Kemp Prototyping & Design, offer a variety of additive manufacturing services to local businesses. These services include not only the production of parts but also software and diagramming.
Additive manufacturing has a bright future for local people and businesses. If you'd like to know more about 3D printing or if you think your firm would benefit from using additive manufacturing technology, give Titan Tech a call today. They can help research different providers in the area, offer advice and training on the technology and manage your data and supply-chain security.
And join us later this week for more tech news.