3D and 4D Printing as Integrated Manufacturing Methods of Industry 4.0

Abstract

3D printing, also known under the term additive manufacturing, is a technology that allows the creation of complex and highly detailed objects using a digital model and a number of materials, such as plastics, metals, and ceramics. 4D printing is an expansion of 3D printing that incorporates time, meaning that the material used in 3D printing can change shape or properties over time. This technology is becoming increasingly important in the context of Industry 4.0, characterized by the Integration of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, the internet of things, and advanced robotics into manufacturing processes. In Industry 4.0, 3D and 4D printing is being used to create customized products, improve supply chain efficiency and reduce costs and lead times. Additionally, 3D and 4D printing is also being utilized in sectors like aerospace, regenerative medicine and dental, and automotive to create complex geometries and parts that would be challenging or impossible to create using conventional production techniques. Furthermore, 4D printing opens up new opportunities in emerging, novel, sectors where the ability to create materials that adapt and change over time can be highly beneficial.

Biocompatible 3D-Printed Tendon/Ligament Scaffolds Based on Polylactic Acid/Graphite Nanoplatelet Composites

“…We believe that this article presents compelling in vitro results for further in vivo experiments. Some strategies may be considered for future directions of this research, to improve the scaffolds’ overall performance and clinical applications, namely, their capability to inhibit mycobacteria [ 71 ] or even adapt and change over time [ 72 ].…”

Human–Material Interaction Enabled by Fused Filament Fabrication 4D Printing

“…To achieve this temporal variation, careful consideration is given to the selection of printing materials and their properties. [188] The development of interactive and adaptable objects is one of the major potentials that FFF 4DP offers in HMI. [108] Objects created with FFF 4DP may be programmed to react to user interaction, alterations in the surroundings, or even physiological signs.…”

Integration of Cyber-Physical Systems, Digital Twins and 3D Printing in Advanced Manufacturing: A Synergistic Approach

“…Thе ability to fabricatе intricatе gеomеtriеs and functional prototypеs on-dеmand еmpowеrs manufacturеrs to strеamlinе thе product dеvеlopmеnt lifеcyclе, rеducе production lеad timеs and facilitatе cost-еffеctivе smallbatch manufacturing. This transformativе capability of 3D printing not only catalyzеs innovation but also facilitatеs thе crеation of highly tailorеd products, catеring to thе еvolving dеmands of a dynamic markеt landscapе (Kantaros et al, 2023a).…”