What once seemed like something straight out of The Jetsons has become a very common utility across all industries -- 3D printing could very well revolutionize the way we manufacture, research and fix things.
Although this new(ish) form of technology is widely recognized as a way to produce mass amounts of prototypes and other forms of commerce, it's potential reaches further than that. Scientists are researching exact replicas of fossils to study dinosaurs and museums can now make copies of sculptures -- in other words, fragile, important pieces of history that used to be untouchable can now be handled freely.
This also makes printing on-demand a more viable option for even small businesses, which could make manufacturing more economical and efficient. However, 3D printers are not being used just to make dozens of clones of the same product. You can create personalized novelties and decor.
Here are nine ways 3D printing is making lives easier.