Let’s skip the “next big thing” talk and jump right into it: three-dimensional printing is officially here and people are already using the technology to change the world. 3D printing has been used in the aerospace and automotive industries for more than 25 years already, but has recently made the move to people’s offices and living rooms as they’ve gotten smaller and cheaper.
In short, the way 3D objects are printed is in one layer at a time where the computer directs the 3D printer to add each new layer as a precise cross-section of the final object. It’s a pretty unbelievable tool and just may change just about every industry you can think of.
We’ve searched around for some of the most bizarre, interesting and inventive 3D objects printed so far:
1. Musical instruments
A drum set, electric guitar, bass and keyboard have been 3D printed. And they’re not just for looks, either. A New Zealand design engineer and professor helped build the instruments’ bodies using 3D technology before attaching things like tuning pegs, bridges, controls and other necessary features. Finally, the 3D printed instruments were played in a live band in Germany. There’s no sign of music stores being put out of business yet, but could it be in the future?
2. Synthetic food
Honestly, “synthetic food” doesn’t sound super appetizing (though we may be eating it today through various fast food joints). But believe it or not, 3D printers have started delving into printing actual meals. NASA has funded an initiative to print food that astronauts can consume in space, and food scientists have been working with the U.S. military to prepare ready-to-eat meals. Also, 3D chocolate, veggie patties and meats have been fashioned. The verdict on the quality of the food’s taste is still out, but if 3D printed pizza and pasta can cut it for military and astronauts, you have to wonder how long it will be until we’ll start printing food at home.
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