3D printing is a process of making three dimensional solid
objects from a digital model. 3D printing is achieved using
additive processes, where an object is created by laying down
successive layers of material. 3D printing is considered
distinct from traditional machining techniques (subtractive
processes) which mostly rely on the removal of material by
drilling, cutting etc. The technology is not new. They’ve been
used to make manufacturing and engineering prototypes for more
than 25 years. But printer makers are now turning their
attention to the consumer market, and have been rewarded with
soaring sales and stock prices — as well as the prospect of
lucrative buyouts. Some printers capable of churning out simple
items such as keychains, wine bottle holders and missing board
game pieces are already selling for as little as $350. That’s
cheaper than a high-end version of Microsoft’s Xbox 360 with
Kinect. Copyright holders will cringe, but people are already
using printers to make Star Wars battle cruisers or