Image credits: Citrus Juicer by walter, Flexbot-quadcopter by Flexbot, bracelet by cunicode
A revolutionary technology, a starring role in this year’s SXSW and headlines in nearly every tech and industry publication for the last three years…yet 3D printing is still not in your home office. Americans are chronically impatient; in this case, they have every right to be. For those of you wondering why so many Americans wait for the large-scale emergence of this revolution, here are four reasons why Americans need 3D printing in their homes.
#1. Never a better time.
Forbes magazine hallmarks the last few years as the time of the entrepreneur. Low startup costs, relatively easy funding and technology that cultivate low investments into high payoffs make it an ideal time. 3D printing is one aspect of that trend. For a few thousand dollars, you can start a small manufacturing business in your own home, complete with website and even a virtual assistant. For self-starters and startup dreamers, that kind of potential cannot be ignored.
#2. Save money, save time, have it now.
Consider this: many things you buy at the store that is fairly small and plastic can now be made at home. Legos, iphone cases, jewelry, and some replacement parts can be printed. The list is growing as the 3D printing technology advances. Checkout www.thingiverse.com if you need some ideas. In the near future you will be able to print things like a coffee mug, a dustpan, a clothes’ hook, a new pair of Croc’s…virtually anything. Not only will that save the small cost of these items (which adds up quickly), but you will also save the time and gas required to buy them.
#3. The ultimate outlet for creatives.
Next time you get the itch to be creative, all you have to do is boot up your 3D printer. A whole new world of possibilities exist. Dream it, design it, create it! With a 3D printer, hobbyists can design art, personalize items and make anything else a fertile imagination can create. This printing isn’t only for those who want to make money. It’s also for people who want to simply make.
#4. Few accessories are needed, since you already have most of them.
Most of the items you’d need to get started with 3D printing for commercial or private purposes are already at home. If you are reading this, you likely have a computer, some space at home and an Internet connection. The only things left are a 3D printer, aggregate material and downloadable 3D software. You’d be ready to go in an afternoon.
3D Printing: the Potential of Fission
This is only the tip of the iceberg for the domestic and commercial potential of the 3D printer (not even mentioning how it will change industry). When the first integrated circuits were released in the late 1950s (they would later be known commonly as microchips), scientists knew they would forever change computing, evolving electronics in everything from nuclear missiles to home calculators. 3D printing has the same ability to revolutionize the world…and your life!
