So who works with or has extensive knowledge of 3D printers? What are the latest and greatest trends in the industry? What new and amazing things are being made? I find these things fascinating.
I was looking at some of the cheaper home printers this winter and imagining all the crap I could print (most hunting related). I have too many hobbies already though
I wouldn't say I have extensive knowledge, but I do have some. I have a lil desktop unit that I play around with and my company is quickly realizing that this is where we are headed. Last month I had an RFQ from a customer for a tail cone. For us to build it old school we were nowhere near their target numbers. I contacted a friend who has a large printer and after playing with some models I kicked out two cones in no time flat. I then took them to my boss and the customer.... looks like a lil Cap. Ex is coming my way I love new toys. There truly is very little that you cannot produce.....
We have a cube X at my work and have made anything from shot glasses and alligator heads to mechanically functioning Control Panels. We can get most of our models printed out in a 8 hour work day. I have always wanted to make a small decoy for yote hunting but the 3D printer is on secure lockdown due to cost.
I have been looking into this as well. Mostly for making patterns for castings. The biggest problem I have found is which one to buy. The 3d printer industry has been growing and changing so fast, that as soon as you buy one there is something better. Maybe leasing is the way to go.
How long does it take to learn how to run one of these things? I admit I know very little about them.
Brad the small units take only half a brain to run with minimal computer / modeling skills. The larger units demand a bit more.
My brother is a total nerd and he built one. He's printed quite a few different things. I personally have no experience with them though. I certainly can see the usefulness though.
