[nickels]

I am surprised that so many here have a generally pessimistic view on 3D printing. While I am no expert in the topic - it seems like a technology that could drastically accelerate production of custom parts, simple objects, even simple machines which would require some assembly. I've read that 3D Printing kiosks will be deployed later this year in certain retail chains for ordering and pickup in a system similar to those photo kiosks at your local Walmart/Target. When the tech advances to a point where downloading build files + materials cost is comparable to the cost of transporting cheap goods from China we will see mass adoption. The cost of importing from China is heavily subsidized by cheap oil transportation fuels. That being said, I see a bright future for instafab technology and the resulting products. Future 3D designers could gain followings, build entire brands & businesses around the resulting distribution model.