Previous Year Question

3D printing is also known as Additive Manufacturing. In this process, a digital model prepared using Computer-Aided Design is divided into thin layers, and a three-dimensional object is created by adding material layer by layer. It differs from subtractive manufacturing, such as machining, in which material is removed by cutting.

Statement 1 is correct. Chocolate, sugar decorations, dough and other confectionery products can be prepared by depositing food-grade ingredients layer by layer in controlled quantities. This makes it possible to produce complex shapes, personalised designs and predetermined quantities of ingredients.

Statement 2 is correct. 3D printing is used in customised hearing devices, ear prostheses and bionic-ear research according to the structure of the body. A model or prosthetic component conforming to the structure of a patient’s ear can be created using medical-imaging data.

Experiments have also been conducted in bionic-ear research by combining 3D-printed biological material with electronic components or conductive material. This differs from an ordinary hearing aid because the objective is to integrate biological structures with electronics.

Statement 3 is correct. In the automotive industry, 3D printing is used for rapid prototyping, design testing, casting patterns, customised tools and low-volume production of complex components. It can reduce the time required to create prototypes and minimise material wastage.

Statement 4 is correct. In reconstructive surgery, 3D printing is used to prepare patient-specific anatomical models, surgical guides, implants, cranial plates and facial prostheses. A model created from CT or MRI data assists surgeons in planning an operation and accurately fitting an implant.

Statement 5 is correct. In data-processing technologies, 3D printing can be used to produce customised electronic components, circuit structures, sensors, conductive paths, micro-devices and prototypes of computing hardware. Multi-material printing can combine insulating and electrically conductive materials within a single structure.

The major methods of 3D printing include Fused Deposition Modelling, Stereolithography, Selective Laser Sintering and metal powder-bed fusion. The method used depends on the material, required accuracy and intended application of the object.