The relationship between science, technology and society during the Covid-19 pandemic
The case of 3D Printing in Canada
Student names (alphabetical order): Alaa Al Ali, Ahmad Al-Saffar, Emile Geagea, Gabriel Mamane, Alireza Ziarizi
Supervisor: Gita Ghiasi
Course: ENGR-392-2202-EE
Abstract
Three-dimensional printing positively aided the covid-19 pandemic in Canada through its recent surge in research, manufacturing, and development. Its effects are measured through an extensive analysis consisting of five parts touching different sections of the topic: a keyword analysis for the proper search of ‘3D printing’, a publication analysis, as well as a patent analysis, each looking into the research that Canada has accomplished over the set years of 2013 to 2021, a company analysis for the top companies aiding Canada with three-dimensional printing, and a socio-economic analysis highlighting the business and gender factors. Three-dimensional printing or 3D printers are used as keywords, with over three hundred publications and patents affiliated with Canada, where the main sector for the topic is referenced as additive manufacturing. High business revenue, yet poor gender gaps in employment and wages, along with the manufacturing of masks for the public feature the importance of three-dimensional printing within Canada during the current pandemic.