Gartner's 2014 hype cycle

[raymw]

I came across this http://www.gartner.com/newsroom/id/2819918 a few days ago, and thought it would be of interest. In particular the position of 'consumer 3d printing'. I'm aware of the considerable hype associated with 3d printing, but I have recently noticed that there has been lately a few more realistic views of its potential. At last it seems that it has passed the peek of 'inflated expectations'. I have always thought that the majority of those who purchased a cheap home machine would become disillusioned with the process, and realise that it was not the 'silver bullet' for home manufacturing. It seems that this is the reality.

Currently, there are/has been dozens, maybe hundreds, of crowd sourced projects for various low cost 3d printers, very few of which will be/have been produced. Hopefully, in ten years time, it will be a bit more sensible.

 

Best wishes,

 

Ray

[raymw]

From an industrial viewpoint, it appears that cost is a major drawback in 3d printing - another Gartner report http://www.gartner.com/newsroom/id/2940117  .Remember this refers to the 'enterprise 3d printing' (see link to chart  in my previous post) which is steadily progressing up the 'Slope of Enlightenment', and not  'consumer 3D printing, that is rapidly descending into 'the trough of disillusionment'.

 

Best wishes,

 

Ray

[raymw]

If you can't be bothered to read the text, then maybe the video is interesting http://www.shapeways.com/blog/archives/19275-nervous-system-creates-kinematics-dress-3d-printed-by-shapeways-acquired-by-moma.html

 

When they do it in metal, then medieval armourers will need a new career...

 

Best wishes,

 

Ray

[raymw]

And a lot more detail this year - http://www.gartner.com/newsroom/id/3117917