Sunday, May 13, 2007

The Coolest Print Outs Are...


... 3 dimensional figures.

Rapid prototyping as it is known, helps draw out various shapes and forms using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software and gets an output in the form of 3D models using a ... well.. 3D printer.

Lets see how it works. Click on the image below.


This science has been inherent in the industry for a while now. Parts of cars, airplanes and other products have been 'printed' in industrial design houses. But now these contraptions will reach the consumer. Desktop Factory, started by IdeaLab, will try and reach the commercial market with a price tag of $4995 (Rs. 2.25 lac) . Not bad at all, considering that these units earlier cost around $100,000 ( 45 lacs). And in the next 4 years, prices will come down to $1000. Quite slick.

How many people will want such a thing? It is impossible to say for sure, but some who work with the current crop of 3-D printers say they will be very attractive when the price puts them in reach of home users. It's not as big as the laser printer market but remember - at one time we never thought we'd need laser printers !

A sample to illustrate 3D printing.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

Too GOOD..

Being a mechie.. i am really looking forward to see it myself..

Keep posted about such amazing things

Mrinal said...

I wonder if in the near future the next generartion of engineers will be taking out 3D 'printouts' of connecting rods and stuff...

Get a screwjack and use it when u have a puncture.

Or use a non return valve in ur bathroom.
EOT!!! Sheesh!