Within 10 years, the 3D printer will have become a common household commodity in the UK according to technology research firm Gartner.
As the technology continues to improve and the production costs plummet, the printers will become more viable options for recreational use in the home. Whilst many individuals are still priced out of buying a 3D printer, Gartner believes this will change in the next 5-10 years.
Pete Basiliere, research vice president at Gartner, explained: “Today, approximately 40 manufacturers sell the 3D printers most commonly used in businesses, and over 200 start-ups worldwide are developing and selling consumer-oriented 3D printers, priced from just a few hundred dollars. However, even this price is too high for mainstream consumers at this time, despite broad awareness of the technology and considerable media interest.”
Mr Basiliere also pointed out the significant differences between the needs of home and business users of 3D printers, including the complexity and flexibility of the software. Simpler ‘plug n print’ models are necessary to attract the general public and build a sustainable home 3D printer market.
Currently 3D printing comprises of seven different technologies, making home use more difficult. Mr Basiliere continues: “Hype around home use obfuscates the reality that 3D printing involves a complex ecosystem of software, hardware and materials whose use is not as simple to use as ‘hitting print’ on a paper printer. First, determine the material, performance and quality requirements of the finished items first; second, determine the best 3D printing technology; and third, select the right 3D printer.”
Printer stockists such as Printerland are starting to invest in 3D printers and expect the level of interest to continue to pick up momentum as the technology improves. Technology specialists Maplin have also announced plans to become the first retailer to stock 3D printers on the high street in the near future.
Another hurdle to overcome is the standardising of printing materials to be used in tandem with the 3D printers. The incredible array of uses for the technology from producing ice cream to replicating human liver tissue means there is not yet a standardised material to print with a 3D printer. Once the primary home uses are determined, a bespoke, dedicated material can be perfected and sold in productive quantities.
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Gartner have also predicted that by next year, seven of the 50 largest multinational retailers will sell 3D printers through their online and physical stores.
However, the research firm is less optimistic about the role of the 3D printer in schools, stating many educational institutes will still be priced out of implementing the technologies. A reusable printing material would be of great benefit to schools which would be required to rectify mistakes and repeat processes to educate students.
The full report from Gartner can be found here.
