Should we be more interested in 3D cutting over 3D printing? Or are they really just two sides of the same (or at least similar) coin
http://fabsie.com/blog/3d-printing-vs-3d-cutting/
Excuse my bias to 3D Printing, but while 3D cutting will coincide, I view 3DP as greater acceptance and implementation vs 3DC. ‘Cutting’ is very much viewed as a “shop” tool, while 3DP is a far more appealing tech, to the masses. The environment is such that “regular” people view “Printing” as something they have been doing for 30+ yrs vs “cutting”. Admittedly, I’m not nearly as informed on CNC but introducing 3DP in “traditional” shops for RP, 1 off’s, etc it relieves a tooling machine for what it was initially designed for, production. I am in the “Copier” world and THAT is the present “next distribution channel” in the US. (That is how I got my taste and addiction to learning more about 3DP). Perception/client marketing, going door to door:
Cutting = Machinist/Specialist Trade/Shop
Printing = “just take a CAD drawing and click, print”…much like the toner/ink printer on your desk o.O
@Rick_Rivera Good points. I think for me at the moment the quality of product from an average 3DP machine isn’t there yet, but I’m sure it won’t take long (hello @Formlabs ). But I ultimately think it will come down to what product you want at the end of the day. Smaller items, more complex shapes totally worth 3DP. But I think for the most part, the majority of stuff people want to make are much more suited to 3DC from a structural and cost point of view - hence why major manufacturers are already 100% in love with it. But those type of machines are never going to be in peoples homes like 3DP ultimately will, like you say.