The potential of Additive Manufacturing (AM) — more commonly known as 3D printing — to support and improve agricultural and forestry-related practices in Australia is being thoroughly investigated for the first time.
3D printing describes the process of using computer-generated models and specialist equipment to construct three-dimensional objects using multiple layers of a material.
The process is increasingly being used around the world for a variety of purposes, including the creation of new products, materials, tools and equipment. The team behind the study believes it is vital for Australia to prepare itself to take full advantage of the many benefits, both existing and potential.
The University of Technology Sydney (UTS), on behalf of AgriFutures and Australia’s Rural Research and Development Corporations, is conducting the 3D printing in Agriculture study, which will consider industry and company-specific needs and contexts.
UTS would like to speak with forestry stakeholders on the key expectations and concerns that either support or hinder the successful application of 3D printing in Australia.
UTS will conduct face-to-face industry consultations, as well as a 3D printing workshop on 14 May at its Sydney campus.
Your contribution will benefit the industry by helping to identify promising business cases for the implementation of 3D printing, and inform further research to help improve the associated technological practices to ensure they are fit-for-purpose in the forestry industry.
If you are able to participate in the consultations or workshop, email Laura.Tomidei@uts.edu.au or call Peter Loneragan on 0411 889 599.
