How small will 3D printing go?
The most primitive way to build something is simply to pile stones one upon another. From there we move to more advanced ways using smaller and more refined materials. That requires a bit more technically advanced ways to “pile” materials together. Today we are manufacturing things on a super small level and with high precision using 3D laser scanning services and 3D printing services. The question is, where does it go from there? How small are we going to be able to go? The answer to that is the molecular level.
3D printing From the Atom up
3D laser scanning services and 3D printing services are doing a good job at putting our ingenuity to work. Every industry from manufacturing to food, to fashion, and a whole lot more are putting 3D technology to the grind. What happens next, though, if the idea ever comes to fruition, is molecular manufacturing. Molecular manufacturing is creating things starting at the molecular level. That means that instead of using complex components to build products, we start at the molecular level. This means building things from the atom up. Wow! How many things do you know are made from atoms? That means you could build anything and everything. I don’t know about you, but the word Star Trek replicator just came to my mind. Just tell it what you want, and it would produce it. Captian Pricard would say, “Tea. hot.” and there it is! That also means things like diamonds and gold nuggets could be created.
The Goodies and badies
Does that sound awesome or what? It definitely sounds amazing. Just think of the potential! Some of the worlds worst problems could be solved. No more food or medicine shortages. There would be no more need to plant a garden. No more need to even go shopping if you had a replicator. Well, not all that glitters is gold. When we start to consider the benefits, we quickly see the disruption that this technology would have on life. Who needs to work if all your food comes out of a machine. What is the value of money or gold if I can just print some out. If technology can be used for good, it can also be used for evil. Technology may be advancing, but the heart of man has not. This technology would surely just as much of a curse as it would be a blessing. Besides who are you going to hire to make more replicators, nobody want to work because they can stay home and get all they need.
Right now, the reality of molecular manufacturing is yet to be actualized. Maybe it would be best if we never get that far. I guess we will have to wait and see. As for now when I want to drink a cup of tea, I still have to get up and fix it myself. I suppose it helps me get exercise. Taking away my belly fat is something that a replicator could never do. For now we should be content with 3D laser scanning services and 3D printing services and look for more creative ways to use it.
