Technological comparison of 3D and 4D printing : Analytical study

Abstract

This thesis majorly presents technological advancement of various 3D printing technologies and introduction of 4D printing technology. The pages includes introduction section with the literature review containing detailed explanation of majority of 3D printing technologies as well as the field that has been highly influenced by this mechanism. With the main objective of finding and analyzing technological difference between 3D printing and 4D printing, both technologies are further broken down and analyzed using SWOT analysis method. A number of available 3D printers and 4D printers are selected randomly with their specifications. Based upon investigative data from the reliable internet sources, these printers are rated from the reviews regarding print quality, ease of use, reliability, failure rate, customer service and price. Furthermore, this thesis investigates challenges and obstacles while adopting these printing technologies. Existing 4D printing process, ongoing development and future application areas and major factors that separates 4D printing technology from 3D printing are dis-cussed. The result section includes rating of these two technologies based upon SWAT review and market analysis of both printing industry.