3D Printing: The Next Technology Gold Rush - Future Factories and How to Capitalize on Distributed Manufacturing

This book concentrates on three main areas.

1. Easy to read, yet detailed explanations of all the 3D printing related technologies currently available
2. Practical advice on how this technology can be leveraged as a successful business in today's economy.
3. The wider long-term repercussions, including real world examples of how 3D printing is set to change the future of industry.

Part 1 of this book presents the various 3D printing systems currently on the market, covering their background, their functionality and their relative pros and cons. Separate chapters offer similarly in-depth examinations of the very latest scanning technologies, 3D modelling software and 3D file archives. Complex technical processes are explained in detail, but using language accessible to readers who are new to this fascinating subject.

Part 2 focuses specifically on areas in which a 3D printer can be used to generate income. It examines a wide range of niche markets presenting real world examples and current success stories. In addition, it identifies and explores many unfilled niches that are still wide open. The author talks extensively about his own projects and analyses large amounts of very well researched information that is unavailable elsewhere.

Part 3 looks at the bigger picture. Individual chapters concentrate upon emerging materials, how the industry is scaling up production, and where the battle lines are being drawn amongst the complex legal issues. Readers are introduced to the highly disruptive nature of distributed manufacturing, demonstrating many of the global impacts and developments that will transform entire economies in the next ten years.

Far from being a dry technical manual, this book addresses three key issues that are important to anybody interested in this rapidly evolving field. What are 3D printers all about? How can they be used to make money? What does the immediate future hold for this amazing technology? Humorous, insightful and inspiring in equal measure.