A 3D laser printer is something you’ve probably seen at work. The tiny laser beam uses a grid pattern to move on motorized rails that shave each layer of material. It could be any material, from balsa wood to PVC and polymers. You can edit the material to an exact level as long as it has thermal resistance. Some machines even allow you to edit down to nano level. What does this mean for frame shops in the future?
Changes in Customer Relations
3D printing is becoming increasingly common worldwide. These tiny machines can create precise models using computer-aided design (CAD). It means everything can be virtually designed, and then it is sent to the printer for final printing. Although there may be several prototypes, the idea process is the same.
This could mean that future frame shops will be almost entirely online. A CAD script could generate a model automatically by allowing you to browse patterns and enter the exact dimensions. To ensure that everything looks perfect, you could overlay a piece of material in a preview box. The model can then be sent to the 3D printer located at the store. Either the customer can pick it up, or the store can ship it. What interiors would our art galleries look like if everyone could create their own frames?
Easy Franchising and Expanding
Companies that do not need to store large quantities of inventory or goods are in a strong position. You would only need to hold the bulk polymers and wood resins, so a small storage space with 5 printers and 5 people could produce more than 100 custom products per day using 3D printers that were created three years ago. What would happen to market availability?
The frame shop could grow into a more significant business if these products become so readily available in a unique form at such a low price. They could rent megaplexes that house thousands of 3D printers, and all produce online submissions via an automated process. You can imagine how simple it would be for millions of customers to be serviced if there were enough technicians available.
Artists in the Future
3D printing is a new concept that could be very exciting for frame shops. Artists could store a large number of designs online. Additionally, they could get higher royalties for each purchase. Stores could also create signature lines using 3D printers that combine the talents of these artists and create stunning themes and coordinated efforts that were previously impossible.
As technology advances, virtual frames and virtual artwork may be possible in the future. You might shop online tomorrow, just as you would in a brick-and-mortar store. Virtual reality technology was used by more than 15 of the 50 largest global companies in 2015. A headset can be used to show a frame to friends, and then you can see it on your home wall. You can also swipe to adjust options. There seems to be a bright future for 3D printing, as well as the world of frame shops.
