WIRED magazine online recently posted this article titled, "3-D printers give us a new way to think," and it brings up relevant thoughts towards information based capitalist social formations, as discussed throughout CS400bA. 3-D printing has the potential to change the way we think of cognitive aids, for example same as when we print documents to ponder them we may print of 3-D demonstrations to aid in learning by having a tactile formation. Therefore social formations are shifting in various aspects of life due to the creation of 3-D printing and new ways of thinking about their use. This article discusses how a brain surgeon uses a 3-D print of brains with tumors to learn their distinct features prior to operation as well as using it throughout the lengthy operation.
Can you think of other ways that 3-D printing can shift our way of thinking about understanding data and solving problems?
Another way that 3-D printing can shift our way of thinking about understanding data and solving problems is the way that we can use it as a tool to better the quality of life. Specifically how the printing can be used as tools to solve or understand problems. By this I mean that for many with disabilities their quality of life is limited or can be improved with the help of technological advancements. For example 3-D printing can bring new advancements for aiding in the quality of life for creating limbs or extensions to help those with disabilities. As well, like stated previously it can be used as a tool to better understand surgical procedures. So with the new printed technology we are able to look at the problems that disabilities bring individuals and discover ways to improve their quality of life.
ReplyDeleteSarah, I agree with both you and Victoria in your ideas of how 3D printing can (and likely will) shift our undertandings of data and problem solving. I think that when 3D printing becomes an accessible technology, it will definitely change modes of production. Assuming that technology will eventually develop to make 3D printing technologies accessible, as well as the programs to design objects, people will be able to fix or create products they need in their own homes. This could completely change our consumer society, and perpetuate the idea of the "prosumer", allowing individuals to not only produce their own media content, but also small, tangible objects. I look forward to seeing if and how 3D printing changes our societal landscape and how issues of copyright and capital control will be addressed.
ReplyDeleteAlannahs example of the the creation of a new "prosumer" is becoming a reality through the means of 3D printing. Already online marketplaces have been set up enabling everyday individuals who have access to one of these devices by creating an online marketplace that brings users ideas to life. Here is one example of an online marketplace for these 3D "prosumer" products. http://www.shapeways.com/
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy the discussion that is going on here. I agree with Alannah's point as well about the 'prosumer' and how individuals are becoming this hybrid of playing the role as both a producer and a consumer. 3D printing is absolutely surging with popularity and I have come to recognize that it is starting to become revolutionary for the entreprenerial lifestyle. A good friend of mine has started his own business recently working with 3D printing, and his sales are already sky rocketing. He is able to develop his own personal business by having access to the correct tools, as well as contribute to technological advancements, and be a key player in the progression of technology within the market/industry. It is also driving progression in many other sectors, for example the health care sector. Think about a 3D printer creating a custom made/designed cast to fit your broken wrist. With the correct materials, algorithms etc... 3D printing could revolutionize the way health care is provided for people. What do you think of this idea?
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