3D printers are devices that print three-dimensionally. There are three types of 3D printers, which all operate on the same principle: The computer-controlled 3D printer gradually applies thin layers of a material. Hence, a three-dimensional object originates. A template for it has to be created in a 3D drawing program first.

One advantage of 3D printing is that each piece can be individually designed. This is particularly useful in medical engineering – hearing aids devices, artificial joints or dental implants can be precisely adapted to patients' needs. 3D printing is also widely used in the automotive industry, and now even 3D-printed houses out of concrete can be built. 

Private people can make use of 3D printing as well. It is possible to commission a 3D print based on a real object, a drawing or a 3D file with different service providers.