While We Are on Parts Hold

Complexity Simply

So, what’s the big deal around 3d printing? Let’s go back in time. What was the big deal around printing? ‘I know, ask me. Ask me.’ Ok, “What was the big deal about printing?”

The first printer was a press invented by Johannes Gutenberg in 1440. Actually that is bullshit as there were movable ceramic type presses employed in China in the early years of the last millennium. Korea had movable metal type around 1377. Ol’ Johannes well might have been violating international copyrights with his press.

The second press introduced to the western world came in 1441 and was used for the first edition of Playboy.

But, what about printers. Good old 2d printers. Probably Chester Carlson with xerography and his ridiculous Xerox Machine.  Who cares? The original question was, “What was the big deal about printing?” And the answer is, ‘printing and ridding the earth of pesky trees’.

But what about 3d printing? I am sure there are many bennies but I’ll start.

1)      It is one of the easiest ways to get an idea into a product, whether for personal use or for others.

a.      Why? Because the process is virtually tool-less. No saw, no lathes, no CNC machines. Just an idea, some design software and a 3d printer. No degree or apprenticeship needed.

2)      Customization: Modification of any design is just minutes away.

3)      Complexity: With all other means of fabrication, we are stuck with the confines of the process such as a lathe. However with 3d printing, we are making our model one tiny layer at a time. For example, GE is now using 3d printers to make more efficient and complicated jet fuel nozzles. (Nope. They are not plastic.) Of course, your dentist is probably making crowns in her/his office using a printer. And, body parts are made with printers as well.

There you have it; cheap, easy, fast, custom shapes in minutes. Time from concept to prototype? A couple of hours.