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Dhruv Bhate

Should a part be made with additive manufacturing? If so, what process should one select, and what design choices should one make? This course seeks to answer these questions by providing a framework called the DFAM staircase, and by providing a scorecard for assessing appropriateness for additive manufacturing.

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Should a part be made with additive manufacturing? If so, what process should one select, and what design choices should one make? This course seeks to answer these questions by providing a framework called the DFAM staircase, and by providing a scorecard for assessing appropriateness for additive manufacturing.

The necessary elements for each course are lecture videos, knowledge checks, and project completion. For additional information on certain topics, I've included supplemental readings and videos throughout various lessons that might enhance your knowledge. Because all resources are not available to all students, these materials are optional.

In addition, you will note that some of the lectures feature our department’s graduate students. These excellent students are sometimes closer to the material, having learned it recently, so we greatly appreciate their participation in the instructional process.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Course Introduction
Should a part be made with additive manufacturing? If so, what process should one select, and what design choices should one make? This course seeks to answer these questions by providing a framework called the DFAM staircase, and by providing a scorecard for assessing appropriateness for additive manufacturing. The necessary elements for each course are lecture videos, knowledge checks, and project completion. For additional information on certain topics, I've included supplemental readings and videos throughout various lessons that might enhance your knowledge. Because all resources are not available to all students, these materials are optional. In addition, you will note that some of the lectures feature our department’s graduate students. These excellent students are sometimes closer to the material, having learned it recently, so we greatly appreciate their participation in the instructional process.
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Module 5.1: Design Constraints in Additive Manufacturing
This module introduces you to process constraints and machining considerations and how they influence design for additive manufacturing.
Module 5.2: Design Considerations for Additive Manufacturing
This module discusses factors to keep in mind when designing projects for additive manufacturing.
Module 5.3: Course Project and Wrap-Up
This module summarizes how to assess whether a part is a good candidate for additive manufacturing; how to decide on the optimal additive manufacturing process; and how to make design changes to best fit the process.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Appropriate for students with an interest in manufacturing and design
Examines factors to consider in product design for additive manufacturing
Project-based learning provides hands-on experience

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Design for Additive Manufacturing with these activities:
Compile a course resource pack
Gather and review relevant materials to strengthen your knowledge base for this course.
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  • Download and review course syllabus
  • Find and review course textbooks
Review Prerequisites
Refresh skills like computer programming that are prerequisites for this course.
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  • Review the basics of Python programming, including variables, data types, and control flow.
  • Complete several Python programming exercises to practice writing and debugging code.
Seek out a mentor or advisor with expertise in additive manufacturing
Provides guidance, support, and valuable insights from an experienced professional in the field.
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  • Identify potential mentors through professional networks, industry events, or online platforms
  • Reach out to potential mentors, introduce yourself, and express your interest in their expertise
  • Establish clear communication and schedule regular meetings to discuss your progress and seek advice
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Review introductory topics related to design for additive manufacturing
Review key concepts from previous courses or self-study to strengthen your foundation.
Show steps
  • Go over notes from previous courses or textbooks on topics like computer-aided design (CAD), materials science, and manufacturing processes.
  • Complete online tutorials or read articles on the basics of additive manufacturing technologies and their applications.
Follow an Online Tutorial
Follow an online tutorial on 3D printing or additive manufacturing to gain a better understanding of the process.
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  • Search for an online tutorial that covers the basics of 3D printing or additive manufacturing.
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step, completing all the exercises and activities.
  • Take notes on the key concepts and techniques covered in the tutorial.
  • Complete a small project using the techniques learned in the tutorial.
Review the basics of additive manufacturing
Refreshes your knowledge of the fundamentals of additive manufacturing, which will provide a better foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Additive Manufacturing
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  • Re-read your notes from previous courses or textbooks on additive manufacturing
  • Review online resources such as articles, videos, and tutorials on additive manufacturing
Participate in online discussion forums related to additive manufacturing
Engage with other students and industry professionals to exchange knowledge, ask questions, and stay updated on the latest advancements in additive manufacturing.
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  • Find and join online forums related to additive manufacturing
  • Participate in discussions and ask questions
Explore case studies of additive manufacturing projects
Examine real-world examples of additive manufacturing projects to gain insights into design strategies and successful applications.
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  • Find and review case studies of additive manufacturing projects
  • Analyze the design approaches used in the case studies
  • Identify the benefits and challenges of additive manufacturing in each case
Solve problems related to additive manufacturing design constraints
Strengthens your understanding of the design constraints and considerations for additive manufacturing, which is crucial for successful designs.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems or exercises online or in textbooks
  • Work through the problems step-by-step, applying the concepts learned in the course
  • Check your solutions against provided answers or consult with a mentor or instructor for feedback
Create a 3D model of a small object for additive manufacturing
Apply the principles of design for additive manufacturing to a practical project, enhancing your understanding of design constraints and process capabilities.
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  • Choose an object that is suitable for additive manufacturing, considering size, complexity, and material properties.
  • Use CAD software to create a 3D model of the object, ensuring it meets the design guidelines for additive manufacturing.
  • Export the 3D model in an appropriate file format for additive manufacturing.
Practice process planning exercises
Complete practice problems to improve your understanding of the different process planning approaches and considerations.
Browse courses on Additive Manufacturing
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  • Identify the different process planning steps
  • Analyze the design constraints and considerations
  • Develop a process plan for a given design
Participate in a study group or discussion forum to discuss additive manufacturing topics
Encourages collaboration, knowledge sharing, and deeper understanding of additive manufacturing concepts.
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  • Join or form a study group with classmates or online participants
  • Choose topics or questions to discuss related to the course material
  • Prepare for discussions by reviewing notes, readings, or other resources
  • Participate actively in discussions, share your insights, and ask questions
Discussion Group
Join a discussion group or online forum to connect with other students and discuss course concepts.
Show steps
  • Find a discussion group or online forum related to 3D printing or additive manufacturing.
  • Introduce yourself and ask questions about the course material.
  • Share your own knowledge and insights with other group members.
  • Participate in discussions on a regular basis.
Design and build a small product using additive manufacturing
Apply your knowledge by designing and building a physical product using additive manufacturing techniques to solidify your understanding of the process.
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  • Brainstorm and design a product idea
  • Create a digital model of the product
  • Select an appropriate additive manufacturing process
  • Fabricate the product
Design Challenges
Complete a series of design challenges to practice designing parts for additive manufacturing.
Show steps
  • Find a website or book that provides design challenges for additive manufacturing.
  • Select a design challenge and complete it using the principles of design for additive manufacturing.
  • Evaluate your design and make improvements as needed.
  • Repeat steps 2-3 for several more design challenges.
Create a presentation on a specific additive manufacturing process
Develops your understanding of a specific additive manufacturing process by researching, synthesizing information, and presenting it clearly.
Show steps
  • Choose an additive manufacturing process to focus on
  • Research the process, including its advantages, disadvantages, applications, and technical details
  • Organize your findings into a logical and engaging presentation
  • Practice delivering your presentation to receive feedback and improve your communication skills
Contribute to open-source projects related to additive manufacturing
Provides hands-on experience with real-world additive manufacturing projects and contributes to the advancement of the field.
Browse courses on Additive Manufacturing
Show steps
  • Find open-source projects related to additive manufacturing on platforms like GitHub
  • Review the project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute
  • Fork the project and create a branch for your proposed contribution
  • Implement your changes or additions and submit a pull request for review by the project maintainers
Design and 3D print a prototype using an additive manufacturing process
Provides hands-on experience with the entire additive manufacturing process, from design to production.
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Show steps
  • Identify a problem or need that can be addressed with an additive manufacturing solution
  • Design the prototype using CAD software, considering the design constraints and considerations for additive manufacturing
  • Select an appropriate additive manufacturing process and material
  • 3D print the prototype and evaluate its performance
  • Iterate on the design and printing process as needed

Career center

Learners who complete Design for Additive Manufacturing will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Additive Manufacturing Engineer
Additive Manufacturing Engineers design parts and objects that are 3D printed. They plan the approach for production and organize workflow. This course may be useful as it provides a framework for assessing the suitability of a part for additive manufacturing. Furthermore, it covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. These insights would aid an Additive Manufacturing Engineer to analyze designs, identify areas for improvement, and optimize production processes.
Product Designer
Product Designers use creativity and technical knowledge to design and develop products. They consider factors such as functionality, aesthetics, and manufacturability. This course may be useful as it helps build a foundation in assessing the feasibility of additive manufacturing for product designs. It also covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. Understanding these concepts would enable Product Designers to make informed decisions and create designs that are optimized for additive manufacturing.
Quality Control Inspector
Quality Control Inspectors examine products to ensure they meet specifications. They identify defects and take corrective action. This course may be useful as it provides insights into the factors that impact the quality of additive manufactured parts. Understanding these concepts would enable Quality Control Inspectors to better evaluate the quality of additive manufactured parts and identify potential issues during the production process.
Materials Engineer
Materials Engineers develop and improve materials for various applications. They conduct research and testing to characterize and optimize materials' properties. This course may be useful as it introduces various additive manufacturing processes and the materials used in them. This knowledge would aid Materials Engineers in understanding the relationship between materials and additive manufacturing processes and developing materials tailored for additive manufacturing applications.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and test mechanical systems and components. They consider factors such as strength, durability, and efficiency. This course may be useful as it provides a framework for assessing the suitability of a part for additive manufacturing. It also covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. These insights would allow Mechanical Engineers to evaluate designs, make informed decisions, and design components that are optimized for additive manufacturing.
Manufacturing Engineer
Manufacturing Engineers plan and implement manufacturing processes. They optimize production lines and improve efficiency. This course may be useful as it provides a framework for assessing the suitability of a part for additive manufacturing. It also covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. Understanding these concepts would enable Manufacturing Engineers to assess the feasibility of additive manufacturing for their production processes and identify opportunities for optimization.
Industrial Designer
Industrial Designers combine art and engineering to design and develop products. They focus on the user experience and aesthetics. This course may be useful as it helps build a foundation in assessing the suitability of a part for additive manufacturing. It also covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. Understanding these concepts would enable Industrial Designers to create designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and manufacturable using additive manufacturing.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. They manage resources, timelines, and budgets. This course may be useful as it provides insights into the factors that impact the success of additive manufacturing projects. Understanding these concepts would enable Project Managers to effectively manage additive manufacturing projects, coordinate with cross-functional teams, and ensure project success.
Production Manager
Production Managers oversee the production process. They ensure that products are manufactured efficiently and meet quality standards. This course may be useful as it provides a framework for assessing the suitability of a part for additive manufacturing. It also covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. Understanding these concepts would enable Production Managers to make informed decisions, optimize production processes, and ensure the successful implementation of additive manufacturing.
Research Engineer
Research Engineers conduct research and development to advance technology and develop new products. This course may be useful as it provides insights into the latest advancements in additive manufacturing. It also covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. Understanding these concepts would enable Research Engineers to explore new applications for additive manufacturing and develop innovative products.
Sales Engineer
Sales Engineers provide technical guidance and support to customers. They explain product features and benefits. This course may be useful as it provides a framework for assessing the suitability of a part for additive manufacturing. It also covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. Understanding these concepts would enable Sales Engineers to effectively communicate the benefits of additive manufacturing to customers and help them make informed decisions.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create documentation for technical products and services. They explain complex concepts in clear and concise language. This course may be useful as it provides a framework for assessing the suitability of a part for additive manufacturing. It also covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. Understanding these concepts would enable Technical Writers to create accurate and informative documentation for additive manufacturing products and processes.
Quality Assurance Manager
Quality Assurance Managers develop and implement quality assurance programs. They ensure that products meet quality standards. This course may be useful as it provides insights into the factors that impact the quality of additive manufactured parts. Understanding these concepts would enable Quality Assurance Managers to develop effective quality assurance programs for additive manufacturing processes and ensure the production of high-quality parts.
Process Engineer
Process Engineers design and improve manufacturing processes. They identify areas for improvement and implement solutions. This course may be useful as it provides a framework for assessing the suitability of a part for additive manufacturing. It also covers design considerations specific to additive manufacturing. Understanding these concepts would enable Process Engineers to optimize additive manufacturing processes, reduce production costs, and improve product quality.
Maintenance Technician
Maintenance Technicians repair and maintain machinery and equipment. They identify problems and take corrective action. This course may be useful as it provides insights into the factors that impact the maintenance of additive manufacturing equipment. Understanding these concepts would enable Maintenance Technicians to effectively maintain additive manufacturing equipment, minimize downtime, and ensure the smooth operation of additive manufacturing processes.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Design for Additive Manufacturing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of additive manufacturing technologies. It is written by leading experts in the field and is packed with practical advice and real-world examples.
Provides a comprehensive overview of additive manufacturing materials, processes, and applications. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is packed with practical advice and real-world examples.
Provides a comprehensive overview of additive manufacturing, covering the principles, applications, and challenges. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this rapidly evolving field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of 3D printing technology. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is packed with practical advice and real-world examples.
Provides a beginner-friendly introduction to additive manufacturing. It valuable resource for anyone who is new to the field and wants to learn more about the basics.

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