As a professional product developer, I’ve owned several 3D printers over the years. Some have been invaluable, running almost constantly, while others have been more trouble than they’re worth. Some printers serve specific, niche purposes that I rarely use, but others are true workhorses. So, if you’re an inventor thinking about investing in a 3D printer to prototype your invention, you might wonder: is it worth it?
3D Printing for Inventors: A Rapidly Evolving Technology
3D printing is a fantastic technology that has made incredible strides in the last 20 years. Once seen as an expensive and complex tool, it is now accessible to many inventors and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re creating rough prototypes, hobby parts like figurines, or even production-grade parts that you sell to customers, 3D printing has become a powerful and versatile tool in product development.
But before you run out and buy one, there are several important questions you should consider. These factors will help you determine whether investing in a 3D printer is the right decision for your invention process.
Questions to Consider Before Buying a 3D Printer
1. What kind of prototypes do I need to make?
Do your prototypes need to be durable and functional, or do they require fine detail? Different printers excel at different tasks, so understanding your needs is critical.
2. What materials will I need to print?
If you’re working with basic materials like PLA or standard resin, you have a wide variety of options. But if you need more durable materials like ABS, PETG, or flexible materials, you’ll need to ensure the printer supports those. Advanced projects may even require carbon fiber-infused polymers.
3. How large are the parts I need to create?
Printer sizes vary significantly, and larger build volumes come at a cost. Be sure to match your printer size to your part size to avoid frustration.
4. Will I be using the printer frequently or just occasionally?
If you’ll use it daily, a higher-end printer may be worth the investment. However, if it’s for occasional use, a more basic model may suffice.
5. Am I willing to spend time learning and maintaining the printer?
3D printing has a learning curve, especially when it comes to fine-tuning and maintaining the printer. Some printers require more time and skill to manage than others.
6. Is 3D printing the best method for the parts I need?
While 3D printing is highly versatile, it’s not always the best solution. In some cases, CNC machining or laser cutting might be more appropriate for your prototype.
Finding the Right Printer for Your Needs
Once you’ve answered these questions, you can narrow down the type of 3D printer that’s right for you:
–Resin Printers (DLP or SLA): These are excellent for highly detailed but often delicate parts. They’re great for small, intricate designs where precision matters.
–FDM Printers: Ideal for producing strong, functional parts, these printers use materials like PLA and ABS. They are less precise than resin printers but much more durable and cost-effective for larger parts. You’ll also need to decide between open-air models and closed-cabinet ones, the latter offering better temperature control for more reliable prints.
However, if your prototypes require specialized techniques like Multi Jet Fusion or SLS printing, it might make more sense to outsource your 3D printing to a professional 3D printing farm. These services can handle more complex jobs without the need for a large investment in equipment.
Alternatively, if your parts are better suited for CNC machining or laser cutting, those might be more practical solutions for your specific needs.
The Costs of 3D Printing for Inventors
3D printers vary widely in price, from less than $100 to several thousand dollars. Fortunately, there are some excellent options available in the $500 to $1,000 range, including closed-cabinet FDM printers from companies like QIDI. These can offer good balance between cost, reliability, and capability.
But keep in mind, buying the 3D printer is only part of the equation. You’ll also need CAD (Computer-Aided Design) skills to create the digital 3D models you’ll print. While many pre-made models are available online, custom parts for your invention will require learning some level of CAD design.
Is Investing in a 3D Printer Right for You?
Deciding whether or not to buy a 3D printer is not always a straightforward choice. While it’s a powerful technology that can greatly enhance your ability to prototype an invention, it’s important to carefully balance the selection of the printer against the types of parts you plan to create.
Investing in a 3D printer is often a smart move for inventors looking to bring their ideas to life more efficiently, but it’s crucial to do your research and choose the right machine for your needs.
If you need help developing an invention or advice on the best prototyping methods for your idea, our team at Product QuickStart can guide you through the process. Whether you decide to invest in your own 3D printer or work with a professional service, we can help you move forward with confidence.
