3D printers are one of those inventions that took a while to grow out of the toy stage. I have several friends who have been making key fobs for some time now. Having one made is a bit like ordering a soufflé at a restaurant. As he takes your drink order, the server advises that if you are interested in one of these desserts, you should order it now. By the time drinks, appetizers, salad and main course are finished, your soufflé should be ready, along with that special addition to your key chain.

     Throughput issues aside, the Maker Movement is starting to find traction in some very useful and intriguing fields. 3D printers, a cornerstone of the MM, could completely change how pharmaceuticals are prescribed and delivered with printed tablets. Not only can dosages be customized (i.e., no more breaking a 20 mg tablet in half), but it may also be possible to combine meds into a single tablet (I’m feeling a little anxious, my knee hurts from working out yesterday and, by the way, my throat is still sore…is there an app for that?). For meds that need to be taken before meals, more research is needed.