I was reading a recent article on new technologies that are emerging and it featured a motorcycle shop from S.D. that is using "3D printing" to rapidly build parts for its custom bikes, or in some cases to do rapid prototyping of parts that then get sent out for more traditional production.
3D printers are $50K-$100K machines that can produce 3D products in plastic. I'm not overly familiar with the technology but the price point was fascinating given its potential applicability to the kit/custom car business.
In the same magazine (Business 2.0 http://www.business2.com/) there was a piece of a new company that acts as a mediator for people who want custom work produced. Everything from casings for consumer electronics through to metal car parts. I found the link, here it is: http://money.cnn.com/2007/08/21/technology/3d_printing.biz2/index.htm
The site is http://www.mfgquote.com/ and essentially, as the buyer, there is no cost to you to get a quote. You post details and CAD drawings etc of what you want and various manufactures from around the world can bid of your request.
As some of you may recall, I've been wondering out loud for a awhile about the viability of having 356 body parts for the replica space produced in metal or other materials, as alternates to fiberglass. My theory being that the confluence of CAD, global manufacturing, new processes like 3D printing and the ability to work over the Internet should create opportunities in the space.
That time may have arrived.
I'm not a builder, so I mention all this purely as an observer, but I have a hunch someone here might benefit greatly from exploring this space a bit further.
-Jeff
Some links to get started:
A printer maker: http://www.zcorporation.com/
Wikipedia on 3D printing: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3d_printer
Another vendor: http://2objet.com/Misc/GoogleHomepageSEO/tabid/254/Default.aspx?gclid=CMeft5m4oo4CFReQGgoduRZeYg
An interesting entry from the Business 2.0 blog about a visit to a shop using 3D printing: http://blogs.business2.com/business2blog/2007/07/disruptors-vide.html
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