Say you need to use a wrench, but you don't have one handy. What if instead of running out to the store, you could just sit down at your computer and print one out? It might sound like science fiction, but thanks to 3D printing, it's already possible.
Printing is no longer limited to ink and paper. Now, people in metro Atlanta are printing out everything from cell phone cases to auto parts to musical instruments.
3D Systems is a company that will "print" out items for anyone who places an order. Their machines put down one layer of plastic at a time. Brian Ford of 3D Systems says the company believes that the manufacturing industry is actually powered by 3D printing.
The possibilities are endless. Scientists used 3D printers to make a robotic hand for a South African boy who was born without fingers. In Minnesota, a technology instructor is seen in a YouTube video explaining how to print the shell of a hair dryer.
Basically, 3D printers can make anything that is comprised of a single material. Electronics and wiring are added later.
Giuliano Moschini of Lawrenceville shelled out $800 to experiment with his own 3D printer. He says once you decide what to print, you can come up with your own design or download someone else's. Then, you wait, because it could take hours for the objects to print.
Of course, with the advancement of any new technology come new concerns. There have been recent headlines about 3D printable guns. Congress is worried that in the near future, it will be possible for someone to print a fully-functioning gun. People have already been successful in printing gun parts, like magazines.
Companies are experimenting with all kinds of materials for 3D printing. The shell of a car was printed with a special type of plastic that is as strong as steel. Architects are also now using a variety of 3D printed materials to build houses. And, Cornell University researchers are putting living human tissue in 3D printers to build replacement ears for people who need them.
Tuesday, May 21 2013 10:37 AM EDT2013-05-21 14:37:54 GMT
It's summer swimsuit time-- but is your suit right for your body?
It's summer swimsuit time-- but is your suit right for your body? Whether you're curvy, boxy, or round in the middle, Intimacy Bra fit specialist Eve Turner has some ideas that will help you find that perfect suit.
Tuesday, May 21 2013 10:17 AM EDT2013-05-21 14:17:24 GMT
When it comes to talking to doctors, a lot of us aren't exactly shooting straight. In fact, one survey found that almost 30 percent of patients admit to lying to their physician.
When it comes to talking to doctors, a lot of us aren't exactly shooting straight. In fact, one survey found that almost 30 percent of patients admit to lying to their physician. So, how much does your doctor really need to know?
Tuesday, May 21 2013 9:45 AM EDT2013-05-21 13:45:59 GMT
It's college graduation time, but before many graduates celebrate, they've got to focus on what comes next.
It's college graduation time, but before many graduates celebrate, they've got to focus on what comes next. With a tight job market, many new grads are getting a dose of reality when it comes to trying to land their first job.
Good Day's own Katie Beasley will walk down the aisle this Saturday, leaving her just a few more days to prepare.
Good Day's own Katie Beasley will walk down the aisle this Saturday, leaving her just a few more days to prepare. So, does she have something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue all covered? We found out.
Monday, May 20 2013 11:00 AM EDT2013-05-20 15:00:34 GMT
When the pools open on Memorial Day weekend, it's going to be hard to keep your kids away from the water.
When the pools open on Memorial Day weekend, it's going to be hard to keep your kids away from the water. But before summer gets into full swing, we've got some tips to help you make sure your children stay safe at the pool.
Monday, May 20 2013 9:52 AM EDT2013-05-20 13:52:30 GMT
The nasty divorce between Real Housewives of Atlanta star Portia Stewart and her husband, former NFL star Kordell Stewart, just got nastier.
The nasty divorce between Real Housewives of Atlanta star Portia Stewart and her husband, former NFL star Kordell Stewart, just got nastier. TMZ's Harvey Levin filled us in on the latest on Good Day!
Monday, May 20 2013 9:46 AM EDT2013-05-20 13:46:04 GMT
In case you don't know, we've got a bride-to-be in the house! Good Day's own Katie Beasley is getting married in FIVE SHORT DAYS.
In case you don't know, we've got a bride-to-be in the house! Good Day's own Katie Beasley is getting married in FIVE SHORT DAYS, so we're spending the week checking in with her on the last minute details of her big day!
Monday, May 20 2013 9:32 AM EDT2013-05-20 13:32:48 GMT
Sure, you know that Turner Field is THE place to watch the Braves in action, but did you know you can also take a walk through baseball history while you're there?
Sure, you know that Turner Field is THE place to watch the Braves in action, but did you know you can also take a walk through baseball history while you're there? Good Day's Paul Milliken-- a self-proclaimed Braves baseball addict-- takes you behind the scenes at the Braves Museum.
KDFW FOX 4 400 N. Griffin Street Dallas, Texas 75202
Main Station Directory: (214) 720-4444 News Fax: (214) 720-3263 or (214) 720-3333
