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3D Printing Now
The revolution from previous 3D printing methods to what has been developed today, all began when companies like 3D Systems started designing radically new materials. The industry evolved from using weak, waxy plastics to very robust materials that can actually be used as a machine part, rather than just a prototype of a part. Companies came up with new materials such as nanocomposites, different blends of plastics, and different blends of powdered metals. These materials are able to mimic other stronger materials such as steel. Companies have already began using 3D printers to create parts on demand. For example, Jaguar is already using the technology for rapid product development. Other companies such as the Bell Helicopter division of Textron are also making use of the new technology and its faster production times. Just think of all the various ways that 3D printing can change our world and the speed in which objects are created! So, what exactly will 3D printers be used for, we hear you ask?
3D Printing At Home?
Thats correct! It is believed that one day in the future, basically every household will own a 3D printer that they will use on a regular basis for all kinds of needs. Just imagine replacing your paper and ink printers with one of these amazing machines! Dont worry, you wont have to be a millionaire to afford one. Six years ago, 3D printers were selling for a huge sum of $100,000! Fast-forward to the present, and you can now get a fully functional 3D printer for just over a thousand dollars. As expected, over the years this price will continue to decrease, so soon they will become just like buying your average paper-and-ink printer. So what can one expect to use this printer for at home, you ask? Experts state that individuals and families will soon be using 3D printers to create everything from toys, to curtain rings, to plates and cutlery. We predict that this will save you a lot of trips to the mall!
Buy Now
Some argue that with the advance of 3D printing, we will soon be saying goodbye to parcels and deliveries. Why is this, you ask? The argument is simple: why click online to buy now, when you can instead click to print now? Thats right! Many believe that the days of purchasing goods, such as clothing, accessories, household items, and tools (just to mention a few) will be well and truly over. Instead, people may simply have to pay to print the item they desire. The item, just like a document, would be sent straight to your printer. You will be using a 3D printer, however, so the item will be printed and recreated in front of you within no time. Brings a whole new meaning to the term online shopping, doesnt it?
Print An Organ
If someone requires an organ, it could soon become as easy as just printing one! Medical experts are excited for what the future holds when it comes to 3D printing, as it could provide the world with much-needed medical advancements, including helping with organ replacements. Bio-printing is a term which means the production of human organs for transplant. 3D printers can create replacement tissues and organs that are printed layer-by-layer. Incredibly, the parts are made from the organ recipient's own genetic matter. This allows the new organ or tissue to precisely match the patients own body and needs. This also significantly decreases the risk of the patients body rejecting their new transplant. Surprisingly, the first commercial 3D bioprinter was developed as early as 2009 by a bioprinting company called Organovo.
Printable Pizza
As mentioned previously, NASA sure are excited about 3D printing technology. So excited in fact, that theyve invested in a firm that is developing a 3D printer capable of printing pizzas for the International Space Station. The firm, Systems & Materials Research Cooperation, have already successfully printed an edible block of chocolate! NASA has given the company a $125,000 grant to design a 3D printer capable of taking 30-year shelf stable foodstuffs and making pizza. We bet the astronauts are looking forward to some real meals coming their way soon! This project also has a huge impact on the whole world, however. As you can imagine, if a 3D printer is capable of printing actual food, then could we one day be saying goodbye to supermarkets altogether? Perhaps the Jetson familys space-age appliance that was capable of producing food on demand wasnt such a crazy idea after all.