Abstract:

In an increasingly connected world, additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, is becoming more prevalent in everyday applications and highly demanding environments such as education, research, and industry. With such a broad range of applications, the world of Additive Manufacturing is as expansive as human imagination allows, encompassing everything from toy-making and rapid prototyping to advanced industrial disciplines. The growth of AM technologies has been exponential over the past few decades. What was once a mere concept has now evolved into a field capable of producing complex parts from materials like metals, ceramics, and composites. This rapid development underscores the immense potential of AM technologies, sparking excitement among those interested in the field.

The study’s methodology was focused on implementing courses and workshops for Undergraduate level Engineering students belonging to a university in Mexico City. Through these courses and workshops students were able to interact with AM equipment and review cases of success and error in the various steps relating to the use, maintenance and general settings of said machines. The main objectives of this research were to provide hands-on experience and practical knowledge, to prepare students for the evolving demands of the industry, to cultivate a generation of engineers who are proficient in additive manufacturing techniques and who have the skillset needed to tackle future technological challenges; and to foster students’ interest in researching, developing and applying AM technologies in their chosen fields of study.

Keywords:

Additive Manufacturing, Materials, Education Methodologies, Undergraduate Education, Technology.