Three different standards are currently competing for the platform leadership within 3d printing standards: Thermoplast, Pulver with adhesive and Hardening plastics. The idea is make 3d printing a standard within the everyday household of a 3D designer. Companies engaged include:
http://www.dimensionprinting.com
http://www.zcorp.com
http://www.3dsystems.com

I can think of at least a thousand different applications for such a printer...