3d printing is a form of {[digital fabrication}} where solid objects are constructed from a digital description. It is primarily used to refer to additive process were material is gradually added to a part-formed object.
In some cases a print head moves back and forth depositing melted plastic, in others more complex robotic heads are used including huge ones delivering fast-setting pumped concrete. Other technologies create layers of material, in particular, during metal printing, fine metal dust is dropped in thin layers and areas that are to be part of the object are momentarily melted using a laser at the end the unmelted dust is collected leaving the complete metal part behind.
Also known as: 3D printed