The 3D Printer Experience Opens in Chicago

Rather than being hidden away in back rooms or the depths of the production floor, 3D printers are making their way into the light of public consciousness, and possibly into your living room. The number of additive manufacturing (AM) systems available to home users has never been higher, with each new product jostling with the likes of MakerBot or 3D Systems’ Cube for each hobbyist dollar.

While everyday consumers are becoming more aware of the potential of AM, a 3D printer still isn’t something you see every day. Giving people a firsthand view of an AM system at work is the best way to further educate, and a number of stores specializing in 3D printers have begun to spring up. MakerBot has one in New York, 3D Creations has opened its doors in Milwaukee, and now Second City is getting The 3D Printer Experience.

The new store has more than 20 3D printers on hand to demonstrate how the technology works, and what it can be used to create. The systems on display include the UP Mini, first and second generation Replicators and, somewhat surprisingly, an EOS Formiga P110. Those three systems represent a sort of cross section of AM in its current state and should provide a solid foundation for understanding the technology.

“The 3D Printer Experience is part of the third industrial revolution, turning passive consumers into active producers,” said cofounder Mike Moceri. “3D printing represents freedom and independence, not having to rely on mass-produced items. It’s moving from a consumer-based economy, to producing your own goods for personal and community-based needs.”

Along with offering to sell the various systems on display, The 3D Printer Experience provides AM services, demonstrates 3D design using open source software, and will be bringing a Filabot to the store to encourage eco-friendly 3D printing practices. The 3D Printer Experience is having its grand opening celebration today, so if you are in the Chicago area, you can stop by and see what AM can do for you.

Below you’ll find a video about The 3D Printer Experience.

Source: The 3D Printer Experience