Layered manufacturing for scientific visualization

The use of layered manufacturing (LM) technology by the Center for Visualization Prototypes (CVP), Oregon State University to create 3D physical visualization models to enhance scientific data understanding is discussed. LM technology adds material layer-by-layer or drop-by-drop until the 3D part is complete. With the use of LM technology, topologically impossible 3D parts can be fabricated. It is even possible to produce already-assembled interlocking parts. Part manufacturing can run to completion without intervention, with no need to flip or otherwise reorient parts during the manufacturing process.