Expansion Of 3D Printing

3D printing is a very interesting form of manufacturing technology that isn’t doing anything but expanding. This layer by layer process has been the key to creating incredibly intricate shapes that consist of organic curves, hollow centers, and moving parts. Feats such as a ball within a ball have been created through this process, which is almost unheard of within the manufacturing world. One thing that is interesting in my opinion is to watch the expansion of this technology; it excites me as well as other 3D printing enthusiasts to watch as this technology falls into the hands of the everyday consumer. Many corporate leaders such as Stratasys, EOS, Objet, 3D systems, and Makerbot really push to reach this goal; everyone needs to know about this technology. Fortunately, there is promise within this subject.

Lately, the home printer movement has been on the rise. Prices of printers are dropping well below $2,000 in many cases – giving hobby designers and product developer a chance to make things! In addition to that, the industry itself has grown in stature within the past 2 years. I personally believe that 3D printing is just now starting its exponential expansion.

Government action has also taken place within the world of 3D printing. To my knowledge, the Pentagon has recently launched a 60 million dollar program in which a massive facility will be created for manufacturing projects. This is great to see the recognition and expansion of the technology.

In addition to the government’s involvement with 3D printing, private interests have been involved with this interesting manufacturing technology. Peter Thiel recently awarded 20 $100,000 blocks of money on various technology projects. One of the projects involved 3D printing. Hopefully this money for research will be strong enough to leave a big impact in the 3D industry.

What else do we have to look forward to within the 3D printing industry? Competition – that is a huge factor to the expansion of this technology. As companies like Objet, 3D systems, Makerbot, and other companies are fighting for the attention of consumers who love the technology – it will grow. Who will get the money from consumers? The company offering the best product will receive the most best capital. This means that companies will be fighting to launch the next best product. One more product in addition to another product will help to increase the momentum of this technology. Hopefully we’ll be looking at an exponential expansion of 3D printing.

What could come out of the expansion of this technology? Why are we searching for this additive manufacturing to expand? What is so significant? Well, a lot actually. This technology could be the key to creating entirely unique products for individuals. It is great in a variety of industries. It could even save your life. 3D printing has played a big role within the medical world. Organ replication isn’t too far down the road. Implants, dental work, and hearing aids are common applications. Jewelry is pretty big too. To answer those questions, this technology impacts a ton of industries for the better.