Additive manufacturing (AM), often known as 3D printing, is a revolutionary method of manufacturing that allows for the manufacture of lighter, stronger parts and systems. Data computer-aided design (CAD) software or 3D object scanners are used to guide machines to deposit material in precise geometric shapes, layer by layer.

Additive manufacturing, as the name implies, involves adding material to an object to produce it. When creating an object using traditional methods, however, it is frequently required to remove material by milling, machining, carving, shaping, or other methods.

In this report, over 43,000 patent applications filed worldwide between 2011 and 2021 in the field of additive manufacturing were examined.