3D Systems announced that Chuck Hull, the inventor of 3D printing and founder of 3D Systems, will be inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) for his globally impactful and transformative work inventing and pioneering 3D printing. With this induction, Hull joins the ranks of formerly honored inventors, including Eli Whitney, Thomas Edison, Orville and Wilbur Wright, Henry Ford, and George Eastman, as well as Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak.
Hull is being recognized by the NIHF and the United States Patent and Trademark Office for his ground-breaking invention of the original 3D printing technology, Stereolithography (SLA). Hull also co-created the STL file format, which continues to be the gold standard in ultra high-definition 3D printing connectivity with all CAD formats. In 1983, Hull 3D printed a small cup, the first-ever object created with additive technology. The success of Hull’s process served as a catalyst to his founding of 3D Systems in 1986.
Hull continues to lead the 3D printing revolution as 3D Systems’ Chief Technology Officer, celebrating 30 years of continuous 3D printing innovation and presiding over seven different 3D print technologies, more than 100 materials and 1,700 patents.
Since 1973, the National Inventors Hall of Fame has been honoring the individuals who have conceived, patented and advanced great technological achievements dating back to the birth of our nation. To be inducted, candidates must hold a United States patent that has contributed significantly to the nation’s welfare and the advancement of science and useful arts.
“Each year we have the distinct honor of recognizing individuals whose contributions to society will resound throughout the ages,” said Michael Oister, Invent Now CEO. “3D printing is an astounding technology that is poised to change the way our world works and the way we interact with it. We are delighted to welcome Chuck Hull to our NIHF family.”
“I am deeply honored to become a part of the NIHF and be considered among the group of high caliber innovators who have transformed the world and improved the human condition in tangible and powerful ways,” said Chuck Hull, Founder and Chief Technology Officer, 3DS. “I always knew that 3D printing had the capacity to change the entire design-to-manufacture process, but could not have anticipated the full impact that my work would have on every facet of our lives. It is incredibly humbling and exhilarating to be a part of this transformation.”
Hull will be honored on May 21, 2014, at the United States Patent and Trademark Office in Alexandria, Virginia.
