Gartner analysts estimate that 3D printing our own food, gifts, shoes and other products is at least five to 10 years away. In a report released earlier this week, Gartner suggested that the 3D printing of product models is two years away from its peak usage, while mainstream adoption of 3D printing for medical applications is about two to five years away. Although the technology is advancing and printers are coming down in price, the concept is not quite ready for everyday use in the home. Continue reading Gartner Report Says 3D Printing Not Quite Ready for the Home

Some believe that 3D printing is being held back due to patents. But that will change in February 2014, when key patents for advanced 3D printers that are averting competition will expire, according to Duann Scott, with the 3D printing company Shapeways. 3D printing for inexpensive and finished goods will be more available to users, and the release of protected patents will be an important step for personalized manufacturing. Continue reading 3D Printing Could Boom When Key Patents Expire Next Year

According to engineer Jim Kor’s vision of the car-manufacturing future, 3D printing will play an important, even dominant role. Kor has engineered the Urbee 2, which could revolutionize parts manufacturing while creating an industry of small-batch automakers hoping to challenge the status quo. Kor’s goal for Urbee is to maximize miles per gallon with lightweight construction based on 3D printing. Continue reading Engineer Imagines Industry Shift Toward 3D Printing Cars