ZDNet Definition for: Nanofactory

A machine that can make a product atom by atom (molecular nanotechnology). Considered the ultimate manifestation of nanotechnology, the concept is that if parts can be built at the molecular level, the nanofactory can build almost anything, even more versions of itself, which would be its first task. However, it would be advisable to not hold your breath waiting for this machine!




Not the Product of a Nanofactory, But...
This object was made in a remarkable machine called a \"3D printer.\" Although 3D printers do not build at the molecular level, in their own right, they are quite amazing, and they are not science fiction. All the gears and rods in this demonstration model were created in place as a single unit from bottom to top by a 3D printer from Z Corporation that jets color binders onto a powdered, composite material one layer at a time. At the end of the job, the excess powder was removed between the gears. When any single gear is moved manually, all the others rotate simultaneously. See 3D printer.

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