Soon We Can "print Out" Our Own Models

[Joe C-P]

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/07/technolo...gin&oref=slogin

A tad rough around the edges yet, but refinements will address that in time.

And not just models - think of all the plastic toys and gadgets that could be scanned and "reprinted", especially once they work out how to do multiple colors.

An interesting future awaits.

JoeP

[B777LR]

So no more writing complaints to italeri asking them if they can send a spare part that isnt in production anymore! I love it

And no more aftermarket spare parts!!!!

[GTX]

Ah, yes but the real power/market will be with those who have the 3D information packs (probably downloadable) to poduce said parts.

Regards,

Greg

[Mossie]

And no more aftermarket spare parts!!!!

I imagine there'll still be some kind of after-market industry.  The main cost will be in the length of time it takes to program the software, more detail=more cost, pretty much the same as it is now.  Manufacturers won't want to price the kits out of peoples reach, so you'll probably still get a basic kit.  It'll be easier for manufacturers to add detail though, so you might be able to get the basic kit for 20 euros say, extra detail for 50 Euros & a super-duper-deluxe version for 100 euros, or whatever.

Manufacturers won't be immune from making cock-ups though, so kits with oddly shaped noses & wrong cockpit detail will still turn up.  Should be simpler to correct the problems though, you go back over your original details & punch in the right numbers, then Revell Spitfire Mk.IX, version 5.1.02 will be available for download.  If a punter is very clever, they might be able to do it themselves.  

Decals will be the main problem though, there still isn't a cheap, widly available printer capable of making them.  Like with graphic design now, maybe model making will not be so much as who's good with glue, a knife & a paint brush but who can understand the software best?