Originally Posted by Gargamel
(Post 2226998)
I'm not sure the analogy is close enough though.
Text printers never printed in a format conducive to reading in a leisurely setting. The e-reader has done that. But the point is valid though.
I would expect, 10-15 years out, that about 30% of homes will have their own 3d printer. Even with idiot proofing trends in similar hardware, it will probably remain a semi complicated piece of equipment to run. But, sites like thingiverse and others do open up interesting possibilities. I will believe that 95%+ of the population, within that same timeframe, will have used 3d printing to create something they need.
I envision store fronts that have various models of printers, using various materials. These are options already available today. But then you can download a design, customize it if you know how (that's the kicker, simple engineering knowledge to get it right), and send it to the shop. They then make it in the appropriate material, and you pick it up later or the next day. Local 3d printers aren't prevalent enough for this option, and shipping costs play a part. So unless it's a custom job, it's not cost efficient to 3d print most everyday objects.
30-50 years out though.... especially with the advances in bio-3d printing.. fully working replacement organs, using the patients own tissue as a base to work with so there isn't rejection issues. Which means, if you have a starter piece of meat, you can 3d print a steak. The StarTrek replicators are not out of the question in the realm of 3d printing.
I know my list of things to make keeps getting longer and longer, I forget more than I remember.
I think one of the first things I'm making is a reinforcing bracket for my head board that squeaks when, well.... you know...
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