Hong Kong Polytechnic University uses 3D printing to improve eye orbital implant surgery.

"We see 3D printing as the next big thing across various key industries in China, namely automotive, manufacturing, consumer goods, and the medical field,” said Zhong Ming Xu, instructor of the Mechanical Model Labouratory at SDPI. “Being able to master innovative technology will help students gain competitive advantages and understand challenges in the real world. It is important to equip students with the necessary skills during their time at the institute."

Unleashing creativity.

A number of Xu’s engineering students have become 3D printing advocates since taking the courses and working with the 3D printers. Some have even established study groups to explore various 3D printing applications other than prototyping.

“3D printing broadens students’ horizons and opens up possibilities for them to think out of the box and enhance their problem-solving skills, as they are able to visualise any problem or test their solutions through3D printed models. Many students found this new technology truly enjoyable and were eager to learn more,” said Xu.

Collaborations beyond campus.

Beyond the benefits of teaching and learning, the 3D printers have bridged business collaborations between the institute and local enterprises. SDPI has helped several companies produce 3D printed prototypes for design validation, including a rearview mirror prototype for a local automotive manufacturer. SDPI also used 3D printers to create different models, including circuit board covers, packaging containers, small tools, and creative crafts.

 

Compared to the traditional model-making methods that required two to three days’ production time, it took only six to seven hours to 3D print the same model for tests, helping companies accelerate product development cycle and focus R&D capabilities. With growing awareness and the government’s strong emphasis on smart manufacturing and grassroots innovation in China over the past few years, Xu believes that adoption of 3D printing has become the inevitable trend to maximise manufacturing capabilities and optimise operation workflow.

“3D printing is already changing our lives gradually behind the scenes and moving up onto the stage,” said Xu. “Putting the next generation of engineers in touch with the innovative technology in their early years will benefit students in their future endeavors as well as the companies or industries that they opt for once they leave school."

A great fit on campus.

Following rounds of research and comparison between various 3D printing technologies and systems, SDPI installed two Stratasys FDM 3D Printers to meet its teaching needs and growing demand for business services. Since installing the 3D printers, SDPI has started specialized modules in model designs and professional manufacturing to focus on 3D printing applications in different fields of engineering studies, such as theory, robotics structure, and computer-aided manufacturing. These modules provide students hands-on experience operating 3D printers, while the models help them better understand abstract ideas.

Under professional guidance, SDPI students can quickly transform ideas into physical models and carryout design tests. For example, a group of mechanical engineering students were asked to design their own engineering components for a robotics project. Using the 3D printers, the students performed assembly, snap-fit and ergonomic tests. Design errors were easily identified and quickly adjusted and the final design was ready within days instead of weeks.