There have been many cool things 3D printed, even automatic rifles. So what makes this special? Not to imply a functional 3D printed motor isnt awesome enough. But also, picture machines that can copy themselves, and make its own spare parts. This is a step towards just that.
Most 3D printers use stepper motors to control the movement of the extruder head. If you could actually print those motors it would be one more big step toward self-replicating hardware. Now obviously [Chris Hawkins'] working 3d printed stepper motor wasn’t built 100% through 3D printing, but the majority of the parts were. All that he had to add was the electronic driver pieces, magnets, wire, and a few nails.
