Free Republic
Browse · Search
News/Activism
Topics · Post Article

To: discostu
But the next wave (which includes not just automation but 3D printers) is going to move us to a point of not actually needing all these people to provide for all these people.

3D printing for the masses is in its infancy, about where personal computers were in the late 1970s. It's going to be a really big deal in the next few years as it displaces workers. I have one. I just made replacement parts for my planter boxes that had rotted, parts for a friends custom towel holder and tool components. Formerly, I could not easily make them by hand in my workshop. These robots are going to be everywhere in a few years cranking out products that people used to make by hand. You're right, the next wave is upon us.

21 posted on 06/22/2014 11:46:27 AM PDT by roadcat
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 7 | View Replies ]


To: roadcat

All anybody needs to look at is how MP3s and streaming have hit physical media sales. Same thing is just revving up with those small Ace Hardware type odds and ends with the printers. When 3D printers can make clothes reality will change very dramatically. Most of the retail world will just end then, no longer necessary.


26 posted on 06/22/2014 12:02:47 PM PDT by discostu (Ladies and gentlemen watch Ruth!)
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 21 | View Replies ]

Free Republic
Browse · Search
News/Activism
Topics · Post Article


FreeRepublic, LLC, PO BOX 9771, FRESNO, CA 93794
FreeRepublic.com is powered by software copyright 2000-2008 John Robinson