Month 1-2: Heat transfer basics

1. Focus on the fundamentals of heat conduction, convection, and radiation.

2. Understand the principles of heat transfer in different 3D printing processes, including SLS, FDM,
and metal 3D printing.
3. Learn how to calculate heat transfer rates in different scenarios

Month 3-4: Materials

1. Study the properties of different materials used in various 3D printing processes, such as nylon,
polyamide, thermoplastic elastomers, metals, and resins.
2. Understand how material properties affect the 3D printing process and the final product.
3. Learn about material selection for different 3D printing applications.

Month 5-6: Strength of materials

1. Learn the basic concepts of stress, strain, and elasticity.

2. Understand how to calculate the strength of materials under different loading conditions.
3. Apply strength of materials principles to 3D printed components, considering the specific
properties of the materials used in different 3D printing processes.

Month 7-8: Manufacturing processes

1. Gain a general overview of different manufacturing processes, including traditional

manufacturing methods and additive manufacturing.
2. Focus on the specific principles and techniques of various 3D printing processes, including SLS,
FDM, metal 3D printing, and other emerging technologies.
3. Learn about the different stages of each 3D printing process, from design to post-processing.

Month 9-10: Design for 3D printing

1. Understand the design principles and considerations for 3D printing, including part orientation,
wall thickness, support structures, and material constraints.
2. Learn how to use 3D design software to create models suitable for 3D printing.
3. Explore design techniques for optimization and manufacturability in different 3D printing
processes.

Month 11-12: Advanced topics

1. Delve into specialized areas of interest, such as material properties for metal 3D printing, process
optimization for SLS, or design for functional performance in 3D printing.
2. Explore advanced 3D printing technologies, such as multi-material printing, continuous liquid
interface production, and binder jetting.
3. Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in 3D printing research and applications.