Despite getting its start in 1984, 3D printing is only starting the journey of its path to success. A quick search will yield some pretty impressive stories; 3D printing is responsible for some medical leaps as well as rapid manufacturing and domestic use. However, one reason you don’t see 3D printers in every household the way you see scanners is patent holdings. With key patents set to expire in 2014, the market will likely flood with affordable and accessible printers.
According to Quartz, it’s not just about having access to any ol’ 3D printer. At the current time, the cheapest printers available are hardly technologically ineffective. What makes 3D printed objects useable is its technology; laser sintering. It’s the cheapest form of technology that patents have a stronghold on. Otherwise, consumers and businesses only have the option of buying printers that costs tens of thousands of dollars.
With the expiration of these patents looming, competition is abound.
3D printers have their place in society. When it comes to industrial use, rapid prototyping, rapid manufacturing and mass customization are among some of the benefits. On the hobby level, users can make ornamental objects and other items that might be useful in the home. For those who don’t yet own a 3D printer but have designs in mind, tapping services from third party companies is available.
3D printing paints a promising future for entrepreneurs. Prior to 3D printing, there was no middle ground for manufacturing between tiny artisan quantities and large mass production. Inventors and idea makers can create prototypes, scan them and begin production in their very own homes.
It also brings the promise of fewer manufactured goods. Things, whatever they may be, will no longer be manufactured and shipped to customers. Instead, consumers can purchase designs for everything from glasses to housing.
3D printing is going to change consumer culture as we know it, and who knows what’s in store for the budding inventor or hobbyist?
Edited by Alisen Downey