Development of a 3D Printer Designed for use in Humanitarian Crises
Open Access
- Author:
- Przyjemski, Andrew
- Area of Honors:
- Engineering Science
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Science
- Document Type:
- Thesis
- Thesis Supervisors:
- John Gershenson, Thesis Supervisor
Osama O Awadelkarim, Thesis Honors Advisor - Keywords:
- 3D Printer
3D printing
additive manufacturing
Humanitarian
NGO
Disaster Relief - Abstract:
- There are over 135 million people worldwide in need of humanitarian assistance. Those in need of assistance are often reliant on non-governmental organizations to supply critical aid items such as food, shelter, and medical care. The ability of these organizations to provide a reliable flow of relief aid to the affected areas is paramount, as disruptions in the supply chain can have disastrous effects on the people reliant on aid. 3D printing has been proven as a useful tool in disaster relief efforts through pilot programs instituted by many international non-governmental organizations. The success of these programs has proven the usefulness of 3D printers in humanitarian relief situations, as well as the willingness for humanitarian aid organizations to adopt new innovative technologies. The aim of this project is to develop a 3D printer designed for use in disaster relief efforts. This printer will allow parts to be manufactured in the field, cutting down supply chain costs. To have the greatest impact in humanitarian relief efforts, this printer was designed to be mobile and durable enough to easily operate in demanding environments. The purpose of this project is to address the shortcomings of commercially available 3D printers to design and create a portable and durable 3D printer that can reliably operate in humanitarian disaster scenarios.