3D printing is a unique form of fabrication that is related to traditional rapid prototyping technology.
In an age in which the news, books, music, video and even our communities are all the subjects of digital dematerialization, the development and application of 3D printing reminds us that human beings have both a physical and a psychological need to keep at least one foot in the real world.
3D printing is not quite what we would call a mainstream application, but the creation of realistic plastic models of products using a "printer" is becoming more popular with more businesses, product and marketing managers, designers and engineers as well as universities.
They can be used in an office environment.
3D printers make smaller parts.
3D printers are easier to use.
3D printers are cheaper to maintain and feed.
3D printers are an example of the popularization and progress of a technology.
It happens in almost every field.
3D printing has a bright future, not least in rapid prototyping, but also in medicine, the arts, and outer space. Desktop 3D printers for the home are already a reality if you are prepared to pay for one and can find an application.