The limits of 3D printing's replicator economy

3D printing might seem poised to realize the replicator economy of Star Trek: at virtually the touch of a button, people could have printers whip up anything they might desire. But even if the technology of 3D printing continues to evolve rapidly, there are important limitations on how thoroughly it will replace good old fashioned manufacturing. Read more about it in my story for Txchnologist, "3D Printing and the Replicator Economy."