Barriers/Prevalence

What are some barriers to adoption?
Despite the many opportunities created by the onset of 3D printing, there are still many barriers that will have to be overcome. Since this 3D printer creates 3D objects, not all companies will need this device. Though it can be used for rapid prototyping, it doesn’t mean that the need to outsource manufacturing needs will cease. As these 3D printers have a maximum size that it can produce, larger models would need to be printed elsewhere, as well as prototypes of complex designs.

Parts need to be printed separately before assembly

The cost of the printer itself may also be a barrier for others to use. Though significantly lower priced than other 3D manufacturing devices, or hiring a company to produce prototypes, there might not be enough funds in the budget to purchase a desktop 3D printer. If people do decide to purchase a printer, a computer-aided design (CAD) software is needed to design the model. On top of that, the price of the material varies. Some 3D desktop printers use plastic, others resin, and other materials. Knowing which product would best suit your needs could also cause people to hold back on purchasing a 3D desktop printer. Not only that, but depending on the amount of prototyping work that is to be created, then, more materials are needed which further drives the costs. Also, if users are not educated in the type of materials to use, they could potentially produce a mix of different materials, which could result in a dangerous mix.

Additionally, plans to make 3D printers a household commodity are idealistic but unfeasible. Unlike regular printers, more sophisticated technological expertise, such as a CAD background, is required to operate the machine. A 3D plan is also needed to print; therefore, a 3D plan must either have been created and stored online or designed with computer aided design software.

Meanwhile, although 3D printers are useful for creating prototypes, it is inefficient in manufacturing products. 3D printers are incapable of creating fully formed gadgets with moving parts: in order to create more complex objects, smaller parts have to be printed individually before assembled.

Lastly, a major concern with 3D printing is copyright infringement. As users of this device have the potential to produce just about anything, companies would be concerned with users prototyping their products and claiming them as their own. This could result in large legal fees that companies do not have the budget for.

How prevalent will this technology be?

Create your 3D design on eBay

So far, the future of 3D desktop printing looks promising. The prices are much lower with the capability to produce prototypes onsite. These printers are much smaller than ones used in manufacturing companies, so they can easily be placed in an office space. 3D printers can produce cellphone covers, medical devices, toys – an endless possibility of prototypes. The office supply chain, Staples, has even started selling 3D printers online and has said to start selling them in physical retail stores soon. Not only are places starting to sell these printers but also, online stores are popping up allowing customers to create and sell 3D printed designs such as Shapeways.com and ebay.com. 

Shapeways Process