The future of mass customization
The first and second industrial revolutions created much wealth and raised living standards to levels not seen before. Human-powered and water-driven machines from the first industrial revolution brought about the steam-powered machines and electrification of the second industrial revolution. With the rise of computer technology, the third industrial revolution connected computers to machines to create smarter machines.
Modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, nanotechnology (applications working with extremely small things), and 3D printing define what has been coined the fourth industrial revolution.
So, what exactly can we expect from this fourth industrial revolution and how do 3D printers fit in?
The fourth industrial revolution and 3D printing
In the fourth industrial revolution, we are introduced to the concept of the smart factory, or a factory that continues to adapt and learn. 3D printers fit well into this paradigm...