by Fomen38 » Mon Feb 02, 2015 6:25 pm
The only problem with a 3D printer, is you need to know CAD (computer aided drafting) to create a model or prototype. I'll tell you when 3D printers will revolutionize the world of fishing- when 3D laser scanners become affordable. There's no way you will be able to precisely match the dimensions of your favorite lure by guesswork. You can get close (and maybe that's all you want or need), but it will never be exact. WeatherTech makes floor mats for vehicles where they utilize hand held laser scanners to create a product that fits the dimensions of the floor board of a particular vehicle EXACTLY. Their scanner uses a criss-cross pattern of lasers to extrapolate contours as well as dimensions. Then they plug that information into their milling machine where they make a metal mold that it then set into their injection molding machine. I have the WeatherTech floor mats, and they are AWESOME! You'll never use another brand once you get them..... But enough about WeatherTech. The point is, the laser scanning tool enables them to precisely, and exactly measure the dimensions of a particular object, then transfer the compatible software to their milling machine. When you can integrate the hand held scanner with a 3D printer, the SKY IS THE LIMIT my friend!