Today, we celebrate World 3D Printing Day! It’s the perfect time to look back on its history and evolution.
Indeed, 3D printing, long perceived as futuristic, is now a strategic pillar for many sectors. Much more than just a manufacturing process, it is a complete ecosystem that enables design, production and innovation to be carried out differently and more quickly.
A brief history of 3D printing
3D printing originated in the 1980s, when Chuck Hull invented stereolithography and the STL format, laying the foundations for modern additive manufacturing. Initially used for rapid prototyping, it developed with the arrival of new technologies such as FDM and SLS, followed by more advanced materials. In just a few decades, this approach has evolved from an experimental process to a mature industrial solution capable of producing complex, lightweight parts that are perfectly suited to today’s requirements.
3D printing: a driver of innovation for all sectors
- Industry: Production of complex, lightweight, robust parts optimised for their intended use.
- Healthcare: Manufacture of custom prostheses, anatomical models and surgical guides.
- Aeronautics and automotive: Rapid prototyping, accelerated iterations, production of functional parts.
- Architecture and design: Total creative freedom and advanced customisation
- R&D: Experimentation, topological optimisation, concept testing in record time
Comprehensive 3D printing enriches traditional industry, paving the way for more sustainable, responsive and personalised production models.
Why has 3D printing become indispensable?
- Accelerated prototyping
- Reduced development costs
- Local and flexible production
- On-demand customisation
