Additive Manufacturing: Technology, Trends and Challenges

In this paper an overview about the conventional and generative manufacturing methods is presented. The advantages and disadvantages of each method regarding their application, efficiency and the implemented material are discussed and new trends in the field of rapid prototyping are introduced. The article describes how by application ofhybrid methods the advantages of both techniques are exploited. Furthermore, Laminate Object Manufacturing and Fused DepositionModelling are in the focus and their application for production of optimal topological components and fabrication of parts with fiber filament is considered