Physical models are an important form of hands-on active learning that is increasingly being replaced by virtual simulations. Rapid prototyping technology has the potential to reverse this trend, and reap the educational benefits while eliminating many of the logistic difficulties that have lead to it. Moreover, the use of rapid prototyping can offer new opportunities to enhance accessibility to physical teaching models and customize them for specific personal learning needs, thereby opening new educational possibilities. To accelerate this opportunity, EDS Technologies has played a vital role to bring in affordable 3D printing technologies to Indian education segment. EDST is actively engaging with a large no of engineering colleges and technical institutes to educate and promote 3D printing in the country.

Many engineering colleges around the country have realized the importance of hands-on models and have designed and constructed physical demonstration models for academics, such as mechanical models for teaching kinematics and dynamics, ball-and-stick models of complex molecules for teaching chemistry. However, these conventional models are being underused and phased out.

Rapid prototyping technology has the potential to reverse this trend, and reap the educational benefits of physical models for hands-on education while eliminating many of the logistical difficulties that are hampering this form of education.

Recent advancements and innovations provide students with a real world of learning
experience, simulating the actual processes designers go through in the workplace.
Z-Corporation printers, with their low-cost, high-speed operation, give students the opportunity to experience the design process from idea to finished product, putting more finished color models in the hands of students to further enhance learning while leveraging technology investments done by the educators.

Some of the leading Indian institutes have already adopted Z-Corp 3D printing machines for their exceptional speed and affordability in creating high-quality prototypes of 3D engineering designs. This trend is catching up with other academics, such as medical research, architecture, molecular modeling and fine arts.

The future for 3D printing seems very promising; it is the fastest growing part of the rapid-prototyping industry. Many manufacturers are showing huge amounts of interest in 3D printing for various applications. Future engineers, architects, artists, health care professionals and scientist would need tangible representations of their work to gain better experience with form, fit, function, esthetics and structure. 3D printing is also a unique opportunity for engineering colleges and institutes to impart knowledge on prototyping technology.

The author is the Marketing Manager for PLM Value Solutions at EDS Technologies...

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