Your 3D Printer is Probably Gathering Dust

By James Chevrette

About 90 percent of leading shops that own a 3D printer, CNC or laser machine fail to use it to the fullest extent, according to a poll taken at the recent MESA (Mobile Electronics Specialists of America) buying group convention.

Over the past several years, many shops around the country have adopted some form of digital fabrication. Digital fabrication is a term that encompasses 3D printers, CNC machines, and universal lasers. The plans or files needed to run these machines are created on a computer or tablet, hence the term “digital fabrication.”

At a training event led by Bryan Schmitt of Mobile Solutions,  Schmitt asked the attendees which digital fabrication products they had in their stores:

• 3D Printer: 75%
• Universal Laser: 40%
• CNC Machine: 5%

Then he asked, “Who feels they are utilizing digital fabrication to its fullest?” Less than 10 percent raised their hands.

When asked, “How many people in your store can use this technology?” the average answer from around the room was 1-2 employees.

This puts store owners in a dangerous situation if an employee moves on. While a 3D printer might only be a modest investment, CNC machines and universal lasers represent major investments. Cross-training your staff might be a way to protect your business, and if the main employee is handling other jobs, another employee can step up and help. This approach may help store owners get the most out of their investment.

Another important aspect of this investment involves digital assets. The shop owner owns the rights to any products created – speaker rings, amplifier plates, subwoofer box designs, etc., said Schmitt. If the shop owner paid the employee on company time, they were working on behalf of the company. So if an employee leaves your organization, they do not have the rights to the projects or your intellectual property (IP), according to Schmitt.

Dealers may also make sure to use a company laptop and company email for digital design, rather than an employee’s computer and personal email. This further protects the store’s investment of 4-5 hours of research and development per project.  It might be cheaper, in the short term, for an employee to use their personal laptop and email, but it might cost you down the line. 

Store owners should get involved in these new areas of business and understand how these opportunities work to maximize their profitability and protect their intellectual property. 

Available courses include those offered by Schmitt’s Mobile Solutions.

Photo by Jakub Zerdzicki: www.pexels.com