A Study on the socio-economic impact of 3D Printing

Abstract

With the expiration of main patent of printing method, public interest now has shifted to 3D printing. In this, it needs to shine a light on the negative effects, particularly in the socioeconomic aspect of 3D printing. By analyzing the existing research findings, policy reports and press releases, the negative effects of 3D printing and its countermeasures were derived. The main drawbacks of 3D printing includes the following: It might cause 3D printing-related crimes(e.g. printed weapons, intellectual property infringement, etc.) and it poses a big threat to other related business sectors.(e.g. potential job loss in molding and medical equipments manufacturing industries) What's more, the nature of 3D printing that it is easy to operate attracts lots of people, which then leads to serious social and environmental problems-product liability, ethical issues, environmental pollution, and finally government's blindly excessive investment in 3D printing. To avoid such potential risks, the government should establish and enforce the institutional law, and guidelines. Government's rational investment decision is also inevitable for the short-term and long-term sustainability of 3D printing.