Adrian Bowyer envisions a common manufacturing device that could make Wal-Mart practically obsolete. Instead of running out to buy a set of goblets or plates, you'd simply design them on your make-it-all machine and push a button. Poof, whatever you want comes out.
His idea is based on "rapid prototype machines," which industry already uses to make plastic auto parts. A concept is detailed in 3D on a computer, and then the machine manufactures the item automatically.
But if Bowyer can pull it off, the machine would inarguably be a handy addition to any stable of household appliances. While it sounds like a huge "if" for now, Bowyer sees it all coming true in just a few years.
People have been talking for years about the cost of these machines dropping to be about the same as a computer printer," Bowyer, a "biomimetics" researcher at the University of Bath in the UK. "But it hasn't happened. Maybe my idea will allow this to occur."
"If these machines take off, it will give individual people the chance to do this themselves, and we are talking about making a lot of our consumer goods," Bowyer said. "The effect this has on industry and society could be dramatic."
http://www.livescience.com/technology/0503...ome_device.html
Full Version: Make-it-all Machine for Do-it-yourself Homeowners
Suprised on no replies on this...
The thing might actually be available within a few years, you stick in the raw materials and out comes whatever you want.
the device will be capable of churning out a host of household items and gadgets, including kitchenware, cameras and even small musical instruments.
Self replicating machine
This could totally change our lives
Another article on it http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=301722005
The thing might actually be available within a few years, you stick in the raw materials and out comes whatever you want.
the device will be capable of churning out a host of household items and gadgets, including kitchenware, cameras and even small musical instruments.
Self replicating machine
This could totally change our lives
Another article on it http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=301722005
sorta gives new meaning to "set another plate for dinner"
What about food?
Like a replicator from star trek
How much power would this take?
Like a replicator from star trek
How much power would this take?
that would be cool
but i think this is totally different
if i understand it
you have a machine with bricks of plastic
and the ability to conform its molds to your peramiters
you input that you want another chair and it spits out a chair
but i think this is totally different
if i understand it
you have a machine with bricks of plastic
and the ability to conform its molds to your peramiters
you input that you want another chair and it spits out a chair
This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.