3D Printing

I'd like to share the technology of 3D printing and how it can be applied to business. For those who are unfamiliar, 3D printing is the process of creating three-dimensional objects by adding layers of material to create the object desired. This is a different form of manufacturing compared to machining in that machining takes a material and shaves it down to achieve the desired object whereas 3D printing adds material. One could begin to think about the reduction in waste using this process.

While 3D printing is typically using plastic materials, in truth there are companies using wood, metal, and other materials. In addition, the technology has been around for a while, most notably for prototype construction, but recent drops in the price of the printing equipment along with a global desire to open source this technology is creating more opportunities for innovative applications. In other words, Web 2.0 technology is helping to spur the growth of this industry to the point where in the future, I believe 3D printing could be as commonplace as going to a print shop to make photocopies.

The open source mentality shared by many in this growing sector is benefiting more than just companies who are attempting to enhance their manufacturing process. A recent example would be Richard Van As, a carpenter who lost two fingers in a construction accident. While searching for prosthetics, he cam across Ivan Owen’s YouTube video about a mechanical hand he created. A few Skype’s later and the two began to collaborate on what would later be called “Robohand”. This first hand created by the team using 3D print technology was then donated to a five year old boy who was born without fingers on his right hand.
This particular story is a prime example of the opportunities that lay ahead for both the consumer and business. With regard to business, I would believe that the open source mentality of integrated usage of Web 2.0 technologies will lend itself to faster, more forward thinking innovation. Because of this, more companies will explore creating service and support functions to assist and profit on this growing sector.