The vast majority of people in the UK and many other countries around the world have used printers at some stage, and many rely on the items on a regular basis, both at home and in the office.
In most cases, this involves the transfer of ink or toner onto paper. However, a far more unusual type of printing has been developed by experts at the University of Exeter.
According to a Daily Mail report, a team led by Dr Liang Hao have created a chocolate printer that enables sweet-toothed individuals to create their own custom-made three-dimensional treats.
Under the trading name Choc Edge, the scientists recently launched the printer and it retails at £2,500. Those keen to purchase one of these unusual creations can head to eBay.
The device squirts out chocolate according to instructions provided by computers and it builds the chocolate shapes up layer by layer.
Because of the high cost of the product, it is thought that demand among individual consumers will be low, but one day people may be able to design their own 3D chocolates using a special website.
Commenting on the machine, Dr Hao said: “What makes this technology special is that users will be able to design and make their own products. From reproducing the shape of a child’s favourite toy to a friend’s face, the possibilities are endless.”
He added: “It could be developed to help consumers custom-design many products from different materials, but we’ve started with chocolate as it is readily available, low cost and non-hazardous.”
The expert also pointed out that there is no waste because any spoilage can be eaten.
Of course, the refills required by these devices are very different to regular printers. Rather than seeking Canon printer cartridges, Epson ink cartridges and so on, users will need to stock up on chocolate.
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