To fantasize, can you imagine having full 3D scanning glasses? Where you could pick up the 3D info on objects in your sight? Not just mesh info, not Nurbs, but the automatic generation of parametric models? You could look at an old ring in your hands, and have a model with handles (to change it) pop up in your vision. As you play with the forms and change the model a price could constantly update on what it would cost to build this new ring you are designing. An efficient, low cost, mass customization, manufacturing center somewhere in the world will make it in days and ship it to you. When will this happen? 15-20 years from now??? I have no doubt that it wil happen.