3D printing has been on a tear lately. Large players Stratasys (SSYS -0.20%) and 3D Systems (DDD -0.86%) are plowing money into R&D and acquisitions to vie for the the industry's lucrative top-dog status. Meanwhile, smaller players like ExOne (XONE) and Arcam (NASDAQOTH: AMAVF) are solidifying their positions in serving high-margin niche markets. With so many moving pieces, what's the best way to invest in the space?

In this episode of "Where the Money Is," Motley Fool Rule Breakers analyst Simon Erickson takes a look at the "Today, Tomorrow, and the Future" of 3D printing. He reveals a common strategy taken by many of the largest players this year, looks at the industry's next big customer group, and even hints at what could be an incredible long-term opportunity.