when was 3d printing invented

2 min read 17-03-2025

The question "When was 3D printing invented?" doesn't have a single, straightforward answer. Like many technologies, 3D printing (also known as additive manufacturing) evolved over time, with contributions from several inventors and breakthroughs in different decades. This article explores the key milestones and figures that shaped this revolutionary technology.

The Early Days: Laying the Foundation (1970s - 1980s)

While the technology we recognize as 3D printing today is relatively recent, the underlying concepts emerged much earlier. The 1970s and 1980s saw the development of several crucial techniques that paved the way for modern additive manufacturing.

Hideo Kodama's Photopolymerization (1981)

Hideo Kodama, a Japanese engineer, is often credited with patenting the first 3D printing process using a photopolymerization technique. His invention involved using light to cure liquid photopolymers layer by layer, building three-dimensional objects. While not exactly like modern 3D printing, it represented a major conceptual leap.

Chuck Hull's Stereolithography (SLA) (1984)

Chuck Hull is widely considered the "father of 3D printing." In 1984, he patented stereolithography (SLA), a process that uses a UV laser to cure liquid resin, building objects layer by layer. This invention is a significant landmark, as it laid the groundwork for many modern 3D printing techniques. His company, 3D Systems, continues to be a major player in the industry.

The Rise of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) (1989)

The late 1980s saw another crucial development: fused deposition modeling (FDM). Developed by Stratasys co-founders Scott Crump and his wife, this process melts and extrudes thermoplastic filament to create objects. FDM is significant because it's relatively inexpensive and accessible compared to SLA, making it a popular choice for both hobbyists and professionals.

From Prototype to Mainstream (1990s - Present)

The 1990s and beyond witnessed the rapid development and refinement of 3D printing technologies. Improvements in materials, software, and hardware led to increased speed, precision, and affordability. The technology transitioned from a niche prototyping tool to a widespread manufacturing technique.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and other advancements

Other additive manufacturing techniques like Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), which uses a laser to fuse powdered materials, emerged and matured during this period. This broadened the range of materials that could be used in 3D printing. These advancements, coupled with decreasing costs, helped to fuel the technology's growth.

The Rise of Desktop 3D Printers

The early 2000s saw the emergence of affordable desktop 3D printers, further democratizing access to the technology. This led to a surge in creativity and innovation across various fields, from hobbyist projects to intricate engineering designs. The increased accessibility fuelled further development and innovation within the community.

3D Printing Today and the Future

Today, 3D printing is a mature technology used in numerous industries, including healthcare, aerospace, automotive, and consumer products. The future of 3D printing is bright, with ongoing research focusing on new materials, faster printing speeds, and more sustainable processes. The initial inventions of the 70s and 80s laid the foundation for this exciting technological evolution.

The answer to "When was 3D printing invented?" is not a single date, but rather a story of incremental innovation spanning decades. The contributions of Kodama, Hull, and Crump, among others, represent pivotal moments in the journey of this transformative technology. As research and development continue, the possibilities of 3D printing will undoubtedly continue to expand.