Walk into any off-licence and chances are there’s a printer for hire to process your documents, usually at quite a high premium compared to professional online services – or even a home-based machine. Still, prices could be set to climb with a new invention touted for release in the near future – though ultimately, there’s very good reason you’d spend a little extra cash.

That’s because the Dreambox – created by boffins David Pastewka, Ricard Berwick and Will Drevno – is a vending machine-style device that can print anything you’d like in 3D – all at the touch of a button.

Mashable revealed that the new device combines the convenience of Redbox with cutting-edge technology in an initiative that hopes to take advantage of the hugely-popular desire to print things in three dimensions.

The trio, who all met in a mobile application development class and subsequent competition at the University of California, Berkeley, came up with the idea as a result of frustration at the lack of accessible 3D printing options on their campus – as well as a two to four-week waiting time.

Users will be able to upload their own designs with a USB stick at the machine, or select one from a catalogue of designs. Many apps can also customise models at the stand. Once the item is added to the print queue, it is then sent to the nearest Dreambox.