Every now and then, a new technological breakthrough happens and it changes the way in which we see and do most of the things around us. With new technology however, comes questions, people want to know how it works, why it works and so on.

 3D modelling is arguably that new piece of technological big break that is taking our world by storm and in regular human fashion, questions arise about it.

Below are some of the most burning questions about 3D modelling and their answers

1. Regular printers use ink to print on paper. What do 3D printers print the said 3D models with and on what?

ANS: 3D models are still printed with the same basic ink-on-paper principle in mind. But the ink as well as the paper in the case is not limited. There are wide ranges of materials that can be used as the print media ranging from concrete to chocolate and molten metals and the print surface can be the floor, a table, etc. the whole process of printing a 3D model is a tad more complicated than this, but this is pretty much how it works.

2. Cost Factor?

ANS: Then major cost to incur is in the initial investment spent on setting up the equipment. We are talking about cost of purchasing a printer, required software, spools of filament and others which truth be told, does not come on the cheap. Once that is out of the way, every other cost should be less than that. What will incur future costs will be raw materials for the 3D model and the cost of maintenance and repairs of the machine. The catch however is that, once all is set, real world usage abounds for the equipment and in the long run, it will save a lot of money.

3. Are there any real – world successful applications of 3D modelling and printing yet?

Researchers have found it easier to use a 3D model in prosecuting studies than older, conventional 2D models. It is easier to read, and helps to take into account all necessary factors.

NASA on its part has been exploring more than most, the possibilities (and there are myriads of them) that are presented by the advent of 3D modelling and printing technology. It tested successfully in December 2015, a new and improved jet engine for future crafts. The catch however, was that 75% of the said engine’s parts were 3D printed!

The internet is awash with even more day-to-day examples. Ranging from castles in the backyard to a yummy bar of chocolate, 3D modelling and printing is indeed the future.

Hope these answers were sufficient for questions you might be harboring about 3D modelling. More research and knowledge is necessary to fully understand the technology and how it works, there are also classes to take that can shed more light on the subject matter.