[Yaaarc] 3D Printers Reshape World of Copying

[James Ronald]

That sounds like something I seen while doing a side job six or so years ago at a place that does injection molding.  They could send the device a cad file and it would make a 3D part by curing some type of liquid resin.  They could then made a mold, injection or vacuum, from that and then start making parts.  They called it a Christmas machine...  It was very cool...    

Jim 

---- Original Message ----- 
  From: Vince Tessier 
  To: yaaarc at stilyagi.org 
  Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2006 9:17 PM
  Subject: [Yaaarc] 3D Printers Reshape World of Copying


  from today's Wall Street Journal:

  http://online.wsj.com/article/SB115456424892525201.html?mod=hps_us_editors_picks

  Some experts say within a few years hobbyists will have their own 
  low-cost machines, many created by other 3D printers. Adrian Bowyer, a 
  mechanical engineering lecturer at the University of Bath in England, 
  says he is developing a 3D printer that, when connected to a PC, will be 
  capable of recreating most of its own parts -- allowing individuals to 
  build new 3D printers for little more than the cost of the plastic resin.

  3D printers can't replicate semiconductors or metal screws and bolts. 
  But products made by printers should be as sturdy as the originals once 
  they're assembled. Mr. Boyer predicts this could aid cottage industries 
  making jewelry or home furnishings like hooks and vases, or even lead to 
  homemade cellphones or digital cameras. He expects a 3D printer that can 
  print itself might be ready in a few years. As the self-replicating 
  machine spreads, "It will evolve," he says, with the most successful 
  changes being widely adopted.

  vlt: This sounds promising.  Self-replicating robots, almost.  It 
  doesn't seem like too much of a jump to having a second "color" of ink 
  that is conductive, leading to coils and motors.  Now fax me a pizza.
  -- 
  take care,
  -- Vince
  "I was nearby when it happened."  -- Sgt. Zim

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