3D Printers: Here to Stay?

Printed phone case © 3D Systems | Ekocycle

3D printers are a revolutionary product. With so many printing possibilities, they can be easily used for good or bad. Uses include car manufacturing, space exploration, shoe design and education.

Aside from all the fun, 3D printers have created some more serious implications. When used in medicine, the results can be spectacular. Not only are printed materials used for implants (pelvic and tracheal), but 3D-printed prosthetics and organ printing are simply spectacular. China has even committed nearly $500 million towards national 3D printing development institutes, showing the importance it could have on commercial manufacturing.

However, using techniques to print guns is what is on the opposite side of the spectrum. While not being as durable as “real” weapons, the question remains of how easily can a person or group of people print off a bunch of guns, and easily dispose of them after use?

As with any new technology there is controversy, however 3D printers have seemingly been used for the betterment of society in their short existence. Hopefully, they continue to challenge commercial norms and eventually bring costs for things like prosthetics down, while increasing availability.