3D Printing truly is everywhere. With 3D Systems’ new Cube Personal 3D Printer it is only a matter of time until little trinkets and tools can be produced in the living room. A remarkable innovation by all means, sure to win many awards at this years CES exhibit, The Cube should expand the 3D printing market into unprecedented growth. The new machine, starting at $1299 and available in the early half of 2012, will be an accessible solution for those looking to produce prototypes that don’t require specific materials or parameters.

The problem here is that despite multi-colored capabilities, the structural strength of the prototype and the material properties do not permit prototypes that have end-use applications. Heat resistance, density, and functionality, to name a few, will all be compromised for simple design applications. Take Objet 3D printers, with multi-material capabilities and heavy duty models, the applications are endless. The Cube really is a toy in the world of 3D Engineering, although for the price, it can be money well spent.