Chuck Hull

Chuck Hull invented stereolithography (SLA) in 1983, a process that creates 3D objects by curing liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer using ultraviolet light. He filed his patent for the technology in 1984, and it was granted in 1986. Stereolithography is considered one of the foundational processes of modern additive manufacturing.

Chuck Hull co-founded 3D Systems in 1986, one of the first companies dedicated to commercial 3D printing and additive manufacturing. 3D Systems, based in Rock Hill, South Carolina, remains a major player in the 3D printing industry. Hull served as the company's Chief Technology Officer for decades.

Chuck Hull was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2014 for his invention of stereolithography. He also received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, the highest technology award in the United States. His work is widely credited with launching the modern 3D printing industry.

Stereolithography works by directing a UV laser onto a vat of liquid photopolymer resin, selectively hardening it layer by layer to build a solid object from the bottom up. Each cured layer is typically a fraction of a millimeter thick, allowing for high-resolution parts. The process remains in use today for rapid prototyping and production of detailed components.