It wasn’t so long ago that if you wanted to try out 3D printing, you’d need to spend several thousand dollars on a printer and material. In fact, some companies still can’t afford to purchase a 3D printer for their prototypes.
All of that is set to change, thanks to Amazon. The company recently announced that they are offering the ability to order custom 3D printing objects and the prices are a lot lower than you might think. In fact, you can create your very own custom bobblehead for less than $30.
The 3D printing store has numerous products available for customization. From the aforementioned bobbleheads, to custom jewelry and even home décor items, you’ll be able to print just about anything you want and have it shipped directly to your home.
That may not be the only way that Amazon will impact the world with 3D printing. Experts have theorized that as the price for 3D printers gets more reasonable, soon consumers will be able to have their own printers at home. Then, they would be able to place an order on Amazon for the product they want and have it printed right in their own homes.
While we’re not quite there yet, Amazon has proven that it is entirely possible to allow consumers to design, create and print their own custom items and have them shipped right to their homes, and all at fairly reasonable prices.
Amazon isn’t the only one getting into the business of custom 3D printing for consumers. Stores like Kinko’s and FedEx retail locations are also offering custom 3D printing for a limited amount of products. The prices for those however are significantly higher than what Amazon offers.
As society begins to familiarize itself with 3D printing, more attention will definitely be paid to this industry. Engineering students who are interested in CAD design will soon have many more opportunities with companies. Right now, the main sectors interested in 3D printing have been the automotive and manufacturing industries, but that could be set to change.
Where will 3D printing take us over the next few years? Will we actually see a world where you can simply order plans for a wrench on Amazon and have a new one printed up in your home in a few hours? It is entirely possible!
If you were to use Amazon’s new 3D printing service, what would you create?
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