HP to Launch 3D Printer Before 2010 Ends

Hewlett Packard (HP), one of the leading printer manufacturers in the world today, has signed a deal with Stratasys to develop and produce a new line of 3D printers. The 2D printing that we are currently familiar with will soon become 3D. The new technology will allow computer-drawn models (from software or applications like AutoCAD and others) to be printed via 3D printers.

The technology for 3D printing is considered a breakthrough for the printing industry. The new type of printing machines will build models by removing or adding materials from a block or by using other materials to construct it. Stratasys will use of fused deposition modeling, the same principle that they has used in their existing models which cost around £9,100.

HP, for its part, is still mum on the possible price of its new line of 3D printers but based on the estimates that they will spend for the new technology, the 3D printer device will most likely cost thousands, more expensive than traditional printer models which are priced within the hundreds range. Initial target market for the 3D printer will be the designers and CAD operators who want to bring their designs to life.

The new 3D printers are expected to dominate the market later this year.