Additive Manufacturing of Natural Materials as a Multidisciplinary Approach in Engineering Education

ABSTRACT

This research shows results from additive manufacturing as an important strategy to produce multidisciplinary skills in engineering students. Case studies are presented with materials and mechanical engineering, and arts as well. Two animals and a natural fiber from Colombia were manufactured with the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique present at the University of Antioquia Museum and in classroom as well, aiming involve the students in a new learning and technological experience. Results reveal the potential of this technology in education and particularly in the motivation for learning and deep comprehension of details of nature only visible at the micro-scale. Moreover, the virtual models for the printing process also open new possibilities after the Covid new challenges for virtual education. © 2022, The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society.