The news recently has been full of the latest invention, the 3D printer. Naturally the first thing that was printed out was a gun, causing a sensation and not a little controversy. However, putting the idea of printing out weapons aside, the 3D printer has an enormous range of possibilities which means that it could change the world, and the way we see the world, for good.Medical developments
There have already been 3D prints of prosthetic limbs, which have helped patients with no legs or hands to get cheap and lightweight versions of those limbs. The printing out of the prosthetic limb is estimated to cost around $100 per piece, which is a considerable reduction from the thousands of pounds or dollars that it usually costs to get a replacement. Software is in development which could be used to contour the limbs specifically to the amputated limb, customising them and making them more stable and secure.
Replaceable parts
If you have a problem with one of the electrical pieces in your home, you often have to wait days while a replacement part is shipped over to your local office. With a 3D printer, your service team would never have to wait again. Instead, they could print out whatever part was needed, and fit it into place the next day. This is particularly important for inventions where the device parts are no longer made, but the machine itself is still important. Copies of the parts can be easily made.
Printed house
Another invention which could change the way we see the world is the printable house. The West is faced with a housing crisis which might be resolved with this printable ‘pop-up’ housing. They could also be perfect for disasters. The finished homes could cost less than £5000, which would mean a substantial saving on moving.
