Selected from the archive for the 3D Printing collection — a quick, visual way into the topic before you go deeper.
Not everybody has a 3D printer at home. They still are not the easiest things in the world to use, especially for those of us without much in the way of technology or DIY skills. This is why we're so excited about Dreambox— it's an on-demand 3D printing vending machine that takes care of all of the hard part for you. Here's how Dreambox works: you need a thing. You find a 3D model of that thing, which is a lot easier than it sounds, and Dreambox makes it even easier than that. If you're a pro, you can upload your own, or modify existing designs. When you're ready, the nearest Dreambox will print out your thing, put your thing in a locker, and text you that it's ready. Head over to the Dreambox, unlock the locker with a special code, and take your thing home. It's that simple. You don't have to deal with any of the 3D printing proces s itself, you just tell Dreambox what thing you want, and then go get your thing when it's finished. At the moment, Dreambox is only printing with bioplastic, but eventually it'll be able to make things in ABS, nylon, wood, or even metal. Since Dreambox isn't making the printer, just the vending system, it'll be able to quickly implement whatever the fanciest or most cost-effective hardware is available. Prices are quite reasonable (something like a custom GoPro mount might run you $10), and with multiple printers in one Dreambox, you shouldn't have to wait very long for your thing.