Future Industrial Platforms and Radical Technology Foresight: The Case of 3D Printing in Finland and Europe

Abstract

This article presents futures oriented analyses of 3D printing, which are based on technology foresight study performed in Finland in 2013. The methodological framework of the Finnish technology foresight study is shortly introduced and explained in this article. The analysis reflects current discussion about 3D printing technology options in Finland, as is reflected in report of Linturi et al (2013; 2014). The analyses of 3D printing provided in this article are also linked to broader international and European context. TechCast study (Halal 2013) and FutMan scenarios of JRC (Geyer et al. 2003a & 2003b) are elaborated. The analyses reveal several emerging aspects and bottlenecks of 3D printing and new industri-al revolution. The emerging aspects are related to the rise of new techno-logical possibilities and new production processes. The bottlenecks in-clude issues such as lacking capacities and competencies of industrial ac-tors in adopting new technological solutions, uncertainties in the efficien-cy and performance of 3D printing solutions, problematic of wider societal transition, and potential risks potentially generated by 3D printing systems and technologies.

Keywords: 3D printing, manufacturing, industrial scenarios, technology foresight, radical technological solutions, innovation policy, innovation management

JEL Classification: O14, O32, O33, C53