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**REVISION HISTORY**
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|  [[:doku.php?id=01_overview:01_history&do=revisions|0]]  |Draft release|Document description here|  2024/05/23 17:42  |  jattie  |


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====== History of 3D printing ======

The fascinating history of 3D printing, from its inception to the remarkable developments we’ve witnessed over the years.

===== Inception & Early Innovations (1980–1995) =====

The journey begins in 1981, when Dr. Hideo Kodama at the Nagoya Municipal Industrial Research Institute published groundbreaking research on a technique he called “rapid prototyping.” His work described a layer-by-layer approach intrinsic to 3D printing. Although Dr. Kodama missed the patent deadline, his research laid the foundation for what was to come1.

Before this, hints of stereolithography-like processes appeared in earlier research papers from the 1960s and 1970s. In a satirical 1974 New Scientist column, David Jones (writing under the name Daedalus) humorously described the SLA process, unknowingly foreshadowing its future impact1.

===== The Journey to Democratization (1996–2009) =====

During this period, 3D printing evolved from an industrial process to a tool accessible to a broader audience. Key milestones include:

  * **1984:** Chuck Hull invented Stereolithography (SLA), founding 3D Systems and releasing the first 3D printer, the SLA-1, in 1987.
  * **Late 1980s and early 1990s:** Other 3D printing technologies emerged, including Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and PolyJet. These methods used different materials and techniques to create 3D objects layer by layer.
  * Democratization: The expiration of critical patents in the 2000s and 2010s led to the rise of low-cost and open-source 3D printers like RepRap and MakerBot. These affordable machines made 3D printing accessible to hobbyists, educators, and small businesses.

===== FDM & SLA Patents Expire (2009–2014) =====

  * **2009:** The expiration of key patents, particularly those related to FDM and SLA, triggered a worldwide democratization of 3D printing. Suddenly, enthusiasts and professionals alike could explore this technology without barriers.
  * **2015–Present:** The journey continues with exciting developments in metal 3D printing, bioprinting, and even construction. We’ve witnessed mind-bending advancements that push the boundaries of what’s possible.
From rapid prototyping to organ printing, 3D printing has transformed industries and sparked creativity worldwide. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and the power of layer-by-layer innovation. 

===== References =====

  * [[https://www.3dsourced.com/guides/history-of-3d-printing/]]
  * [[https://ultimaker.com/learn/the-complete-history-of-3d-printing/]]
  * [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3D_printing]]
  * [[https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/printing-machine-royalty-free-image/1065223632]]