3D inkjet printers fabricate physical models from computer-aided design (CAD) data. Multiple parts can be printed (manufactured) simultaneously  3D InkJet printers operate like classic desktop inkjet printers. Some systems offer 24-bit color capabilities just like a document printer. 3D printer systems revolutionized the production of pieces having complex geometries and small, detailed features.

You can buy 3D printers that operate in any standard office environment with no need for a dedicated operator. 

Depending on the materials deposited through the inkjet(s) you can manufacture production parts for low volume production runs, test CAD designs, create prototypes, make one-of-a-kind parts, build all sorts of architectural models and related components without having to first making molds, casting parts or machining. 

While the printing industry was in transition from shooting film and burning printing plates Dave Mainwaring provided the Computer To Plate Pressroom for printers and manufacturers to share new methods, workflows and made the inkjet printer acceptable as a method to proof high quality color images prior to going to press.

 

YouTube has some terrific presentations of 3D printing 

 

 

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