This technology emerged in 1986 and has already managed to change the world. It's available for beginner entrepreneurs because it doesn't require huge investments, as well as giving everyone the opportunity to create useful things and generate income. We talk about how to make money with 3d printing and what you need to get started.
How 3D printing was invented
In 1980, Japanese researcher Hideo Kodama applied for a patent on equipment that used UV light to create layered objects from photopolymer resin. He described the idea being used now, but within a year he was unable to gather all the documents needed for registration.
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The Japanese scientist abandoned the idea, but after 3 years, French engineers Alain Le Meho, Jean-Claude Andre and Olivier de Witt use a monomer to create three-dimensional objects, which are converted into a polymer under the influence of a laser. The first thing they created with the device was a spiral staircase. They apply for a patent, which is approved for three full years. At the same time, they didn't introduce the technology anywhere – they didn't understand why.
At the same time, the American Chuck Hull worked in the furniture industry. Prototyping plastic products took a lot of time, so he decided to combine UV technology and plastic layers. Using photopolymers, he printed the first design and applied for a patent in 1984, which was approved 2 years later. After founding 3D Systems, Chuck created a commercial printer in 1988.
How to make money with a 3D printer
So what do the now patented technologies, of which there are many now, allow you to do? Here are some ideas:
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- Toys, souvenirs, collectible figurines. Thus, the target audience is parents, museums and tourist shops, as well as people passionate about popular culture. You can print builders, puzzles, house models, corporate symbols, etc.
- What is related to medicine: prostheses, orthopedic insoles, corsets, exoskeletons. It is more difficult to work in this segment, the public is more restricted, but the prices and, consequently, the profit are better.
- Food products: decoration for cakes, figured chocolate, caramel, etc. All this is in demand among patisseries, patisseries and bakeries.
These are just examples. Plus, you can print architectural models, interior details, accessories, and more. The main thing is to know the consumers who are going to buy it and estimate the size of the investment.
The initial investment depends on how much the 3D printer will cost. This will be a value in the range of 10,000 to 20,000 reais. Also, you will need a 3D scanner that costs 23,000 to 30,000 reais, consumables. Also remember that the business will need to be registered and advertised constantly, which is equivalent to another 35,000 reais. However, thanks to low competition and growing demand, these investments pay for themselves quickly.