Applications of 3D printing in various industries:
The use of additive manufacturing in consumer products and hobbies
3D printing offers consumers unprecedented choice regarding products, hobbies, and even dietary options. The most important services aimed at consumers include, for example, the production of spare parts for various household devices as well as jewelry and decorative items. Consumers can design their own prints or order a pre-designed 3D model online. The print itself can be ordered from a service provider via mail (courier) or picked up at the nearest service point.
The most well-known companies providing prints are iMaterialise (Belgium) and ShapeWays (United States). Both have a comprehensive selection of ready-made 3D models as well as a wide range of materials. It is also possible to submit your own model to either service through their websites.
Simple parts can be easily designed with various design applications, such as TinkerCad, for example.
Below are presented some common uses of 3D printing favored by consumers / hobbyists:
Spare parts
Manufacturing spare parts for cars, household appliances, and hobby equipment (e.g., bicycles). Among car enthusiasts in particular, 3D printing has gained popularity as it allows hobbyists to produce high-quality custom parts cost-effectively.
Drones
Figures and small scale models
Valaisimet
Others
Consumers will also increasingly encounter consumer products in the future that are partially or entirely made using 3D printing. For example, in shoe manufacturing, in addition to 3D-printed, custom-made insoles, there are already whole shoes and sandals available that are produced using 3D printing.
