The 3D revolution gains pace with two new printers announced
Published 10 January 2012
Posted by Martyn Day
Parts built on 3D Systems’ new Cube 3D printer, which is being unveiled at CES
The International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is currently taking place in Las Vegas. As well as the usual gizmos and gadgets on display the event is also proving that interest in low cost 3D printing is growing with two of the major players in the field - Makerbot Industries and 3D Systems - announcing some exciting new 3D printers.
Makerbot Industries, has released the next generation Makerbot, the Replicator ($1,749). With a faster and finer resolution and a build area of 9 x 6 x 6 inches, it demonstrates a decent 44% increase in volume on the previous machines. As CEO Bre Pettis says, “Pump up the volume”. There are two models, a single extrusion head, or a slightly more expensive dual extrusion head for printing in two colours or multiple materials. Both have the luxury of a built-in LED control interface.
In many respects the design, and ‘garage-nature’ of the Makerbot, RepRap and Printrbot businesses remind me of the early days of computing, not dissimilar to Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak selling computer kits to the hobbyists and ‘homebrew’ clubs. This is undoubtedly a market to watch and Makerbot Industries are upping the game by expanding the build size and complexity, while still keeping the price low.
Makerbot Replicator with CEO Bre Pettis
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