Traditionally, printers have been used to make copies of information on paper. These days, however, a new type of printing is making actual three-dimensional objects, and it is opening the door to an exciting world of possibilities.
3-D printers produce three-dimensional objects based on a design by a computer program. The computer reads the design and then lays down layer after layer of powder, liquid, or other materials to build the model. This process cuts down on material waste and high costs, which are usually linked to traditional manufacturing methods. It also saves time and allows for greater customization, since computer designs can be changed and printed again.
Already, 3-D printing is being used in a variety of fields. Artists are using it to make sculptures and jewelry. Industrial designers are using it to produce models, while auto mechanics are using it to create hard-to-find parts. Someday, 3-D printers may enable doctors to make replacement organs for people.
We are just beginning to understand how 3-D printing will impact the world. Clearly, it will be one of the most important technologies of this century.
傳統上印表機一直都是用來複製紙上的資訊。然而，時至今日，一種新型態的列印技術能製作真實的立體物體，為一個令人興奮的世界開啟各種可能性。
3-D印表機能根據電腦程式的設計來製造立體物品。電腦會讀取設計，然後鋪上一層又一層的粉末、液體或其他材料來建立模型。這種製造過程能減少材料的浪費與高額成本，而這兩者通常和傳統的製造方法有關。它也能節省時間，容許更多客製化的可能，因為電腦設計可以修改及重複列印。
3-D列印已經被運用在各種不同的領域。藝術家用它來製作雕像和首飾。工業設計師用它來製造模型，而汽車技師用它來製造不容易取得的零件。將來有一天，3-D印表機或許能讓醫生為病人製作替代器官。
我們正要開始了解3-D列印會如何影響這個世界。顯然，它將是本世紀最重要的科技之一。
文章出處：Live互動英語雜誌
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