TechHive: Study finds major savings through household 3D printing

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Study finds major savings through household 3D printing Jul 31st 2013, 21:06, by Michael Keller Originally published by Txchnologist. Though 3D printing may still be a long way from the Star Trek replicator that can create any object on demand, a new study has found that a currently available machine could save the average household considerable money. Michigan Technological University engineers conducted an economic analysis of 3D printing simple goods like toys, kitchen aids and tools at home using a low-cost open-source device like one called a RepRap. The manufacturing technique called 3D printing builds objects through a computer-guided extrusion head that deposits successive layers of plastic or other material. "RepRaps have been proposed and demonstrated to be useful for conventional prototyping and engineering, customizing scientific equipment, and appropriate technology-related manufacturing for sustainable development," the study's authors write. "However, in order for this technology to proliferate like 2D electronic printers have, it must be economically viable for a typical household." To read this article in full or to leave a comment, please click here Media files: 3d_printer_shutterstock-100048364-small.jpg

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