3D and 4D Printing in Industry 4.0: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities

Abstract

The manufacturing industry across the globe is accelerating at a rapid pace, and 3D and 4D printing is the emerging technology in Industry 4.0 for automobile, aerospace, and biomedical products. Recent advances in additive manufacturing, commonly referred to as 3D-printing, have enabled researchers to use conventional manufacturing techniques to create complex shapes that were previously impossible. A 3D printing research division named four-dimensional (4D) printing includes printing with smart materials that responds to external stimuli. This research paper gives a basic understanding of this upcoming trend in the field of materials, technologies, and applications for 3D/4D printing. Objective: The main purpose of this article is to present current developments and advances in the field of additive manufacturing and its potential in Industry 4.0. Key Challenges: The challenges in 3D and 4D printing of emerging materials are addressed with practical solutions in order to meet the needs of Industry 4.0.