3-D printing finding niche around world
Kits putting technology within consumers’ reach
Monday, February 8, 2010
It may sound like a prop from a science-fiction movie or some garage inventor’s holy grail: a device that converts a computer file into a three-dimensional physical object.
But the technology known as 3-D printing is already widely used in industry, and it’s been catching on with hobbyists and do-it-yourselfers around the world.
There are online businesses that take a digital design and create three-dimensional objects by extruding metal or plastic to form unique toys, jewelry, tableware or favorite characters from sword-and-sorcery computer games. Thousands of people have joined an online community for sharing ideas and design tips on the Web site of Shapeways, a Dutch company that does custom 3-D printing for consumers.
And there are open-source ...
Subscribers must LOG-IN to read this full story.
Monthly and yearly online subscriptions are available starting at only $5.95. Access is free for print subscribers. Click here to see rates and register.
Business, Pages 21 on 02/08/2010
Comments
To report abuse or misuse of this area please hit the "Suggest Removal" link in the comment to alert our online managers. Please read our comment policy.
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.
Registration is required to make comments. Click here to LOGIN.
You can register for FREE to post comments and receive alerts.