Browsing by Subject "3D-tulostin"

This thesis investigates different kinds of ways that consumer grade 3D printers are used. Additionally, I investigate what reasons of use and motives are in effect while using 3D printers. The users of 3D printers are a poorly known consumer group and scientific studies on the subject are scarce. The data for this study was gathered by an electronic questionnaire, which was distributed via Facebook groups and places offering the possibility of 3D printing, among other places. The questionnaire was responded by 84 persons with experience in 3D printing. The analysis of this data was performed mainly with quantitative methods, but also open-ended questions were used in the understanding of this poorly known phenomenon. In general, the users of 3D printers are men and have experience in the technology industry. In addition, they are highly educated. Most respondents have used 3D printers for less than a year, which relates to the recent nature of this study’s topic. 3D printers are used quite diversely. The most common objects printed are models and prototypes, utility articles and spare parts. The printed objects are mostly designed personally, but some users use ready-made design files because of lacking skills. Most respondents use 3D printers situated in shared spaces like libraries and workplaces. It seems that the users of the 3D printers are becoming more diverse. New users are a more heterogeneous group which utilizes 3D printing more commonly in leisure oriented environments and applications. The respondents highlight many different reasons and motives for using 3D printers. Using 3D printers is entertaining and many utilize them for DIY hobbies. The respondents feel that 3D printing is an intriguing technology and they are interested in its new application possibilities. Many believe that 3D printing will change the world of the future and they view themselves as forerunners while using 3D printers. Additionally, self-sufficiency and the changing role of the consumer are issues that interest in 3D printing. The most important aspect in the instrumental use of 3D printers is the individuality of the printed objects. The printing of objects is rarely a substitute to buying them. As in the case of the users of 3D printers, it seems as if the reasons of use are in transition. Newer users more commonly stress the playfulness of 3D printers and the deterministic faith of progression associated in 3D printing. Additionally, they feel more positively about the future of consumer oriented 3D printing. On the contrary, more experienced users stress the fascination of 3D printing technology and the instrumental value of 3D printers.