3D Printing as an Enabler of Innovation in Universities. Tellus UPM Ecosystem Case

In the current academic landscape, innovation emerges as a fundamental pillar, driving the transformation towards a more integrated and practical education. This study highlights how the implementation of 3D printing technologies, centered on projects developed under the framework of the Tellus ecosystem at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), is fostering a renaissance of innovation within the university sphere. By exploring the convergence of technology, education and sustainability, it is revealed that FabLabs, specifically FabLab ETSIME-UPM, act as catalysts for this change, providing the necessary tools and resources to transform theoretical ideas into tangible prototypes and viable solutions. Furthermore, this study demonstrates how 3D printing aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, facilitating the creation of projects that are not only innovative but also sustainable. Through the analysis of specific methods and materials employed in the 3D printing process, it illustrates that this technology is a driving force in enhancing adaptability and efficiency in project development. Therefore, this study postulates that the incorporation of 3D printing in academia, especially in the context of the Tellus UPM Ecosystem.