3D Printing: The Next Industrial Revolution?

Is 3D printing poised to bring about ''the next industrial revolution?'' So says attorney John Hornick, author of a new book on the subject. Titled 3D Printing Will Rock the World, it doesn't mince words about the potential for this emerging technology to transform the manufacturing landscape and consumer purchasing practices. Hornick believes 3D printers are nothing less than ''the most powerful machines human beings have ever invented.'' Is he being hyperbolic, or visionary? On this episode, he explains his reasoning. We discuss the types of industries and products that will be most affected by the 3D printing revolution, the differences between industrial and consumer-grade printers, the state of the technology today, problems of quality and consistency that have yet to be solved, and the ''dark side'' of 3D printing – the ability to create perfect knockoffs of products, thereby undermining intellectual property protection.