The invention of 3D printing makes many dreams and ideas that were once thought to be impossible, now a reality. Items ranging from customized organs and prosthetic limbs to manufactured drugs are being printed. These mind-blowing creations suggest that the possibilities are endless for the future, especially in the medical field. But it also makes us think, that just maybe, we as consumers will be able to purchase our own printer and design whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted, and thus causing our weaning off of mass produced items.
As intellectual beings, we are naturally inclined to solve problems. The introduction of a 3D printer into our day to day lives would change our thought process and how we’d handle different situations. For example, when handles, knobs, or other small parts, break off of appliances, instead of running to Lowe’s or Home Depot to buy a new one, one could simply design and print that part within his own house using user friendly software
(video of door knob being 3d printed) 
The following article discuss the authors use of 3D printing to replace items around the house. tea pot being printed
The ability to design and print whatever you want will clearly affect the economy. But will it cause our market and economy to be transformed from its traditional ways? Printing could lead to several changes. There would be a decrease in mass manufacturing since individuals would manufacture their own solutions. Furthermore, this will have an effect on the economy. It’d change the money flow, we’d see new jobs form and different companies rise to wealth and power. It’s also possible that unemployment will increase since less labor will be needed due to a change in the supply chain of products (depicted below). How drastic will these changes and other changes be? Only time can tell.
Today’s Supply Chain
Possible Supply Chain of the Future
Recent Comments