By applying 3D printing methods, consumers can receive a personalized product in record time--leading to endless possibilities for production. Check out our list of 5 unique items currently being manufactured using 3D printing technology.
5. Phone Cases
Phone cases were one of the first mass produced 3D-printed objects in the consumer market. Buyers enjoy ordering a unique, personalized phone case that’s easily shipped to their home within days. The design company SaGa developed a phone case that transforms Siri, the intelligent personal assistant, into a haunting face. When the cover is on the smartphone, users are forced to make a direct connection with the ghostly appearance. When a consumer must use the iPhone screen, the cover can easily be slipped off. We certainly couldn’t fit this case in our back pocket, but would you use this elusive Siri cover?
4. Furniture
Talk about going green! Dirk Vander Kooij, a Dutch student, discovered the process of creating customized furniture using materials from an old fridge. His recycled furniture has been making headlines and winning awards around the world. Now 3D printing machines can be adjusted to create larger objects such as furniture. We’re thinking about ordering a Mario Kart Racing bean bag chair!
3. Toys
Spiked dice are the new 3D toy attraction due to their complex form. The dice range from $20 to $40 depending on the amount of detail required for the design. Another type of toy gaining hype is ModiBots, which integrate the printing technology to produce 700 interchangeable parts for kids to build the bot of their dreams.
2. Cars
Can you imagine driving a vehicle that was made using a 3D printing machine? Urbee is recognized as the first to be manufactured using this technology. Advantages of the 3D printed car, Urbee, include fuel efficiency, safety and low-maintenance costs
1. Body Parts
Parts of the human body are not only being reconstructed through archaeological science, but living people are benefiting from this technology that creates a more comfortable, healthy life. Scientists use 3D printing to produce less invasive ways of creating a body part. A 3D printed jaw was transplanted into a British elderly woman to replace her deteriorating one. Researchers have now printed ears and hope to change the lives of many people in the next few years.
Contributed by Laser Reproductions, a provider of rapid prototyping, manufacturing and model development services to industrial design firms, original equipment manufacturers, inventors and architects.