The 3-D Printer Movement Is Here

By Chase Waymire


If you think back over the past few years you will probably not find anything that has created such a buzz like 3D printers. These devices are like something out of a science fiction movie. They are able to take raw materials and literally print out three-dimensional objects. They have the potential to greatly change everyday living.

Medicine looks to this technology to help rebuild human bodies by printing out replacement parts. Metal and plastic can be used to print out pieces to replace bone and cartilage. This means replacement ears, vertebrae and other body parts may become printed out on a daily basis. There have already been cases where body parts have been replaced using this technology.

The way we explore space may be revolutionized when astronauts use these devices to print tools and replacement parts in space. They could make repairs much quicker in this manner and do it with more safety. Someday they might even remotely build habitats for human habitation on other worlds.

The process starts with a CAD design that is fed into the machine. The printer is able to use the design specifications to lay down the raw materials one line at a time until the object is finished. There are several different sizes of these machines and some are available now for home use. They are not much bigger than a home inkjet printer but they cost from $1200-$1500 which is probably quite a bit more than your last inkjet.

This is an evolving technology that will definitely impact society in a huge way. The fields of medicine and science will try and push the boundaries of what can be accomplished and we will all reap the benefits. Homeowners will not be left out as they too will look for new ways to use their home printers. They can be both practical and four hobbyists as well.

Right now three-dimensional printing at home is in its infancy. In a few years it may make a huge difference in the way we shop at home. We may soon be downloading a pattern purchased from a website and using it to print replacement parts for appliances and many other things.

One thing for sure is that 3D printers will be bringing new jobs, skills and a new way of doing things to the average family in the years to come. Just how fast this new technology will be embraced by the general public will depend largely on how it can solve a need in an economical way.




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