Desktop 3D printers are coming!

[Szos]

I too find 3D printers wildly fascinating, but coming from the CAD world, I am fairly used to seeing my work ending up in some kind of real-life physical form... but being able to directly make intricate parts and pieces using a 3D printer is a whole order of magnitude cooler.

[zzacmann]

Wow, those look awesome! Especially that second link for the printer under 5 grand that prints in plastic. Plus it says it only cost about a dollar per cubic inch. Thats really not bad. Cant see these coming into my house anytime soon, but can certainly see something like this popping up in Kinkos and similar commercial print shops.

Its not just for creative use either. Im just remembering all the occasions where I need an incredibly hard to find part to fix something and with this, I could just make one on my computer and print it out. For instance, the plastic handle broke off of the glovebox door in my brothers car and we've never been able to find a replacement. With this I could just take the measurements of the broken handle, recreate it in Maya or CAD and simply print out a new one. I run into circumstances where I could use something like this on almost a daily basis (Im somewhat unlucky when it comes to breaking and losing things).

It kind of reminds me of Star Trek in a way. I not a Trekkie by any means, so correct me if Im wrong, but I seem to remember some sort of device, it might have only been for food, where they would simply tell the computer what they wanted to eat and the computer would assemble the food on the spot from a catalog of molecules in its library.

I know 3D printers have been around for years now, but I just never imagined they would be affordable enough for home use so soon.

[ndog]

http://forums.cgsociety.org/showthread.php?f=59&t=497011

[csven]

As I'm familiar with both of these, I'm watching for two things:

1) word on at least one other sub-$5000 3D printer

2) an announcement that would take the new inkjet technology developed in Australia and apply it to a 3D printer; partially bc when I made that comment on my blog I got significant traffic from that same company's server.

[TomMeeks]

As I'm familiar with both of these, I'm watching for two things:

1) word on at least one other sub-$5000 3D printer

2) an announcement that would take the new inkjet technology developed in Australia and apply it to a 3D printer; partially bc when I made that comment on my blog I got significant traffic from that same company's server.

What amazes me is how many different directions the 3D printing industry has gone and will go. Right now just being able to do it at all for under $10K is a breakthrough. But, that surely won't last long. The Silverbrook technology, or some similar approach, that speeds up the process is bound to come along as the industry matures. At the speeds of the V-Flash or Desktop Factory it will be difficult to make money by simply kicking out parts. One has to use them as value-added features of a bigger profit generator... such making molds for casting, etc.

Blog traffic is an interesting indicator. Some of the best information comes indirectly, doesn't it?

For instance, I was working at the Navy Federal Credit Union during the Cuban Missile Crises in the accounting department. Suddenly, we got a flood of calls from admirals and generals closing their accounts and instructing us to send all the money to their wives in places like Kansas and Nebraska! Now, THAT, I can tell you, got our attention. Especially, since our office was just a few blocks from the White House. I fully expected to be vaporized! :eek:

[TomMeeks]

I too find 3D printers wildly fascinating, but coming from the CAD world, I am fairly used to seeing my work ending up in some kind of real-life physical form... but being able to directly make intricate parts and pieces using a 3D printer is a whole order of magnitude cooler.

The first time I heard about a 'Home Computer' I wondered what in the world anyone would ever do with it??

Well.... we now know!

I think there is a parallel to 3D printing. Once it's here we'll find amazing new applications for it that aren't even possible to predict right now.

Pretty cool.

[zzacmann]

The first time I heard about a 'Home Computer' I wondered what in the world anyone would ever do with it??

Well.... we now know!



Freecell....mostly freecell.


Sometimes Minesweeper.

[TomMeeks]

Wow, those look awesome! Especially that second link for the printer under 5 grand that prints in plastic. Plus it says it only cost about a dollar per cubic inch. Thats really not bad. Cant see these coming into my house anytime soon, but can certainly see something like this popping up in Kinkos and similar commercial print shops.

Its not just for creative use either. Im just remembering all the occasions where I need an incredibly hard to find part to fix something and with this, I could just make one on my computer and print it out. For instance, the plastic handle broke off of the glovebox door in my brothers car and we've never been able to find a replacement. With this I could just take the measurements of the broken handle, recreate it in Maya or CAD and simply print out a new one. I run into circumstances where I could use something like this on almost a daily basis (Im somewhat unlucky when it comes to breaking and losing things).

It kind of reminds me of Star Trek in a way. I not a Trekkie by any means, so correct me if Im wrong, but I seem to remember some sort of device, it might have only been for food, where they would simply tell the computer what they wanted to eat and the computer would assemble the food on the spot from a catalog of molecules in its library.

I know 3D printers have been around for years now, but I just never imagined they would be affordable enough for home use so soon.

I like the way you think! :thumbsup:

The printers are one thing... but, creative people that can visualize entirely new ways to use the technology are going to be the real movers that make it exciting.

[csven]

Blog traffic is an interesting indicator. Some of the best information comes indirectly, doesn't it?

Yep. Especially when they're corporate servers.

[SimonRobinson3d]

I have been following the development of 3d printers for a while, and if your not excited about them now - imagine this, . . . .

Currently, the very highend printers are being developed to print in different materials.
Among these materials are plastics, stronger than steel and lighter than carbon fibre. Electrically conductive materials, so allow printing of circuit boards and components. Flexible silicone material, and clear glass like acrylics.

These combined with micron fine resolution mean you could not only print door handles and car parts.
You can print a mobile phone, a lightbulb, a hairdryer. . . etc

There will be no need to have a circuit board housed within a plastic case, it will print a layer of plastic a layer of electronics, and another layer of plastic. (credit card thin phones anyone ?)
The files for millions of consumer objects will be exchanged and downloaded on demand, and you just have to press the 'print' button.

Every home should have one (and probably will ! )
Cool huh ?

[Sonk]

You can print a mobile phone, a lightbulb, a hairdryer. . . etc

There will be no need to have a circuit board housed within a plastic case, it will print a layer of plastic a layer of electronics, and another layer of plastic. (credit card thin phones anyone ?)
The files for millions of consumer objects will be exchanged and downloaded on demand, and you just have to press the 'print' button.

Every home should have one (and probably will ! )
Cool huh ?

haha, that'll be the day! I had like to create that high tech eye patch that my avatar is wearing :D. Its gotta be functional though(cell phone and camera all in one small eye unit)..otherwise its pointless to wear.

So until that happens..i wont be buying a 3D printer anytime soon..

[zzacmann]

How long until I can print out a new girlfriend?

[rootoftwo]

I used to work in industry operating an SLA 5000 (http://www.3dsystems.com/products/sla/sla5000/index.asp) for a consumer product company. So I got spoiled by having a half a million dollar machine to play with. I've been waiting for the price of 3D printing to drop for years. I thought it would be Objet (http://www.2objet.com/) that got there first after they beat out the patent suit issue with 3D Systems. I'm currently turning myself into an academic by writing up a PhD that examines the adoption of 3D Modelling software; use of CNC machines; and RP&M technologies by artists, architects and designer-makers. I am particularly interested in the conceptual realisations that these processes may bring for art and design practitioners and the possibility of making innovative types of object conceived and made through new means for new forms of audience or market.

The 3D Systems V-Flash desktop modeller and the Desktop Factory 3D Printer are examples of the current decrease in cost that will drive increased proliferation of these technologies. Other examples would be desktop laser-cutting machines such as the VersaLaser (http://www.ulsinc.com/versalaser/english/index.html) At $7,495, the 3D Desktop Laser Scanner from NextEngine (http://www.nextengine.com/) at $2,495; and desktop scanning and milling machines such as the Roland MDX-15/20 (http://www.rolanddga.com/asd/products/milling/) MDX-15: $2,995, MDX-20: $4,495 that are being used by high-end hobbyists. I'm intrigued by the David Freeware Laserscanner (http://www.david-laserscanner.com/), too. At Cornell University a project called Fab At Home (http://www.fabathome.org/) is sharing open-source working plans for building a 3D printer - the less ambitious can buy this machine as a kit that is being manufactured by Koba (http://www.kobask8.com/) at the cost of $3,100. Another project is the Evil Mad Scientist Laboratories’ Candyfab (http://www.evilmadscientist.com/article.php/candyfab) - a home-built three dimensional fabricator of low cost that can produce objects out of sugar.

Another interesting trend I've been watching is the likes of Fabjectory (http://www.fabjectory.com/) that are offering to produce a physical model of an avatar from SecondLife, a Mii from Nintendo Wii, or an object from Google SketchUp built on a Z-Corp printer. For $50 - $200 you can get a physical 3D model of your object with coloured texture maps. Another indication of this trend is OGLE (OpenGLExtractor) (http://ogle.eyebeamresearch.org/) an open source software package by the Eyebeam OpenLab that allows for the capture and re-use of 3D geometry data from OpenGL. OGLE is being used by Simon Spartalian and Mike Beradino (http://recursiveinstruments.com/) - a pair of students at the Art Institute of Chicago to CNC mill SecondLife objects from various materials. Objects of Virtual Desire (http://www.objectsofvirtualdesire.com/) is a similar project by Swedish artists Simon Goldin and Jakob Senneby. The artists physically fabricated a series of objects produced and owned by inhabitants of SecondLife which were exhibited at the Bergen Kunstall (October – November, 2005) together with interviews with the original owners.

I think it will be a little while before we all have our own machines but I think in a few years we should be seeing something like TechShop (http://www.techshop.ws/index.html) springing up all over. I'm also interested to see how Ponoko (http://www.ponoko.com/index.html) takes off. I think we will also see a lot more retail opportunities like Fluidforms (http://www.fluidforms.at/shop/catalog/index.php) and businesses like Unto This Last (http://www.untothislast.co.uk/).

I highly recommend Neil Gershenfeld's book 'Fab: The Coming Revolution on Your Desktop'. He summarises this in a TED Talk video here (http://www.ted.com/index.php/speakers/view/id/88).

Last year I curated an exhibition of projects that explored this area and these and other related technologies. Pictures here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/10049648@N00/sets/72157594324102629/). There are some more projects like this in an exhibition I did in 2001 here (http://www.artcore.ws/homepage.html) (click on Projects > Artists).

I think these are probably most of interest to readers of this thread:
http://www.futurefactories.com (http://www.futurefactories.com/) – Lionel T. Dean
http://www.mrmann.co.uk/ - Geoffrey Mann
http://www.oktavius.co.uk (http://www.oktavius.co.uk/) - Tavs Jørgensen
http://www.justinmarshall.co.uk (http://www.justinmarshall.co.uk/) - Justin Marshall

Tavs and Justin are both researchers at University College Falmouth (UK) who are currently looking for applications for research degrees (MPhil/PhD) in the area of 3D digital production. A small number of studentships are available with bursaries covering UK/EU fees and a stipend. For more information see http://www.autonomatic.org.uk (http://www.autonomatic.org.uk/)
Deadline for applications: 11 July 2007. Interview date: 26 July 2007.

Lionel's and Geoffrey's work was recently shown in Berlin:
http://www.designmai.de/cgi-bin/designmai2007.pl/Digitalability/
http://pingmag.jp/2007/05/11/digitalability/

If interested I've got lots more stuff on my blog (http://designedobjects.blogspot.com/). Cheers.

[cem]

The 3D Systems V-Flash desktop modeller and the Desktop Factory 3D Printer are examples of the current decrease in cost that will drive increased proliferation of these technologies. Other examples would be desktop laser-cutting machines such as the VersaLaser (http://www.ulsinc.com/versalaser/english/index.html) At $7,495, the 3D Desktop Laser Scanner from NextEngine (http://www.nextengine.com/) at $2,495; and desktop scanning and milling machines such as the Roland MDX-15/20 (http://www.rolanddga.com/asd/products/milling/) MDX-15: $2,995, MDX-20: $4,495 that are being used by high-end hobbyists.



John,
Thankyou for all the info I've been interested in 3D printers for the last couple of years and some of your links have definately come in handy. Though the only type I could afford at the moment are still the Roland Milling machines. I know they have trouble with undercuts but looks like there is a 4th axis attachment available for them now which may alleviate some of those problems. So any chance you have seen one in action and possibly know if there are any other limitations with them. I'm only looking to be making small items so there fairly small work area size isn't a problem.

Cheers,

Clair

[csven]

IAnother indication of this trend is OGLE (OpenGLExtractor) (http://ogle.eyebeamresearch.org/) an open source software package by the Eyebeam OpenLab that allows for the capture and re-use of 3D geometry data from OpenGL. OGLE is being used by Simon Spartalian and Mike Beradino (http://recursiveinstruments.com/) - a pair of students at the Art Institute of Chicago to CNC mill SecondLife objects from various materials.

For what it's worth, OGLE was inspired by this business-related post of mine in which I used another app to strip the 3D from a videostream: http://blog.rebang.com/?p=186 . I spent time corresponding with OGLE's creator as a result.

And I believe that Simon and Mike have since ceased their efforts. Unlike the Fabjectory effort which is, afaik, a secondary use (i.e. the Z-Corp is used after hours), their effort did not, from what I read, have an underlying business support system.


Objects of Virtual Desire (http://www.objectsofvirtualdesire.com/) is a similar project by Swedish artists Simon Goldin and Jakob Senneby. The artists physically fabricated a series of objects produced and owned by inhabitants of SecondLife which were exhibited at the Bergen Kunstall (October – November, 2005) together with interviews with the original owners.

While the designs originated inside Second Life, the real objects were created using separately modeled 3D files (I was curious and asked when the exhibit was announced).

Lastly, I didn't notice mention of RepRap (http://blog.reprap.org/). Worth reading their blog, imo.

[rootoftwo]

Clair, Sorry but I have no experience with the attachment you mention. I have used a 4th axis rotary head on a Bridgeport Mill - which is probably the manual equivalent. I don't see why it wouldn't work. I saw some amazing things a couple of years ago at TU Delft (http://www.tudelft.nl/) being done with cutters on the end of a robotic arm and scanning between passes. I'm not aware of it being available yet, though.

Csven, thanks for the info. Not mentioning RepRap (http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/WebHome) was merely an oversight. Definately worth reading their blog. I loved Cubey's Penguin Ball by G+S.

Cheers.

[TomMeeks]

How long until I can print out a new girlfriend?

You can do it now... if you like the SMALL SILENT type. :eek:

[TomMeeks]

John,
Thankyou for all the info I've been interested in 3D printers for the last couple of years and some of your links have definately come in handy. Though the only type I could afford at the moment are still the Roland Milling machines. I know they have trouble with undercuts but looks like there is a 4th axis attachment available for them now which may alleviate some of those problems. So any chance you have seen one in action and possibly know if there are any other limitations with them. I'm only looking to be making small items so there fairly small work area size isn't a problem.

Cheers,

Clair

One of my associates has a Roland MDX-15 and it's been a real workhorse. There are some setup issues; but, once the thing is aligned properly it does a nice job. It is, however, very noisy and you really need an enclosure for the dust that it sprays. The enclosure doesn't have to be fancy. It can be as simple as a hefty cardboard box to contain most of the shavings.

The bits are expensive if you get them from Roland; but, there are places that sell suitable bits very inexpensively.

It's definitely been worth the investment for him. He's also used it to touch scan existing objects. But, as you said, it doesn't handle underscuts in either configuration.

[cem]

One of my associates has a Roland MDX-15 and it's been a real workhorse. There are some setup issues; but, once the thing is aligned properly it does a nice job. It is, however, very noisy and you really need an enclosure for the dust that it sprays. The enclosure doesn't have to be fancy. It can be as simple as a hefty cardboard box to contain most of the shavings.

The bits are expensive if you get them from Roland; but, there are places that sell suitable bits very inexpensively.

It's definitely been worth the investment for him. He's also used it to touch scan existing objects. But, as you said, it doesn't handle underscuts in either configuration.

Thanks John and Tom also Tom is the only difference between the MDX-15 and MDX-20 just the build size as this is all I can gather from Rolands Spec sheets. I'm probably going to have to take a trip to the other side of the country if I want to see one in action unless by a miracle there is actualy something I'm interested in available in Perth. I'm trying to get as much info and real user experience as possible before I plan on making an expensive trip. My husband supports my 3D work but probably within reason ha ha.

Thanks for the info

Cheers,

Clair

[ysvry]

realy cool prospects, print your own LEGO or robot parts. Is that plastic realy as strong as steel? people can print theire own weapons then. A bit scary how the borders between virtual and real become more blurry still. those 3d printers should work on a molecular level are there any already? I do remember a foto were ibm wrote theire name in molecules. Just some thoughts. Thx for the headup.

[csven]

@ysvry - you can fab metal as well. There are various methods for doing this. The Utah.edu RP website has plenty of links: http://home.utah.edu/~asn8200/rapid.html (http://home.utah.edu/%7Easn8200/rapid.html) .

[TomMeeks]

Thanks John and Tom also Tom is the only difference between the MDX-15 and MDX-20 just the build size as this is all I can gather from Rolands Spec sheets. I'm probably going to have to take a trip to the other side of the country if I want to see one in action unless by a miracle there is actualy something I'm interested in available in Perth. I'm trying to get as much info and real user experience as possible before I plan on making an expensive trip. My husband supports my 3D work but probably within reason ha ha.

Thanks for the info

Cheers,

Clair

I don't really know if there are any other differences. I'll ask Steve, who has the MDX-15; but, my initial thoughts are that they are functionally the same.

[TomMeeks]

realy cool prospects, print your own LEGO or robot parts. Is that plastic realy as strong as steel? people can print theire own weapons then. A bit scary how the borders between virtual and real become more blurry still. those 3d printers should work on a molecular level are there any already? I do remember a foto were ibm wrote theire name in molecules. Just some thoughts. Thx for the headup.

The range of materials and methods used for 3D Printing and fabrication is remarkably diverse. The resolution runs from coarse to very fine and the strength runs from brittle to metal hard. There are even research projects using 3Dprinters for building up tissue cultures for things like burn grafts.

http://www.sciencentral.com/articles/view.php3?type=article&article_id=218392681

At the Rensselaer Nanotechnology Center they have used a standard inkjet printer to create carbon nantube patterns. It's fascinating.

http://news.rpi.edu/update.do?artcenterkey=1701

For individuals, the Desktop Factory, is a first step toward what promises to be ever improving capabilities with graducally lowering initial and operating costs. At the very least, I see these new printers as platforms and opportunities for experimentation in new creative expressions. Pretty cool.

[TomMeeks]

UPDATE - Desktop Factory Samples Arrived

Last week Desktop Factory agreed to send some older samples of the output from their printer. They are not able to provide current samples because each one they print in this phase of development is carefully documented and stored for comparison purposes. This means that they were only able to send items that were damaged or aborted for some reason in much earlier tests.

This was fine with me because I am only interested in the properties of the materials and a general idea of the texture and smoothness of the output. Moreover, I wanted to be able to test post-print techniques like sanding, machining, finding paints that work well and other processing options.

INITIAL REACTIONS




1) The material is harder than expected.Since Nylon is the primary ingredient, I expected the parts to be softer and flexible. The items are very hard and rigid.
2) The surface is smoother than expected.



The heating process creates discoloration in a zebra pattern that, in photographs, appear to be deep ridges. Running one's hand across the surface, there are no deep corrugated ridges as I had expected. There is some mild surface differentiation between layers; but, not as pronounced as the images would lead me to believe.


3) The texture is a bit like sandstone; but, much harder.This one's a bit tricky to describe. It has a bit of roughness to it, like a fine sandstone. But, its hardness is more like metamorphic rocks. I notice a power residue that comes off in my hands. But, I haven't tried to wash them as yet to see if that is simply loose residual powder. It's definitely seems more like stone than a traditional plastic to me. It has a great tactile feel to it, with some heft that I find appealing. I would, however, coat parts with something that would cut down on the powder rubbing off. Most of the SLA type printer users dip the items in something like Crazy Glue to harden it. While not required for hardening the Desktop Factory output, a coating of some sort is probably not a bad idea.4) The detail in the samples is enough for my purposes.Two of the pieces have relatively sharp points that lead me to believe that the Desktop Factory's resolution is good enough for anything I have planned for it. I cannot vouch that this would be good enough for finely detailed parts; but, this isn't a requirement for me. As newer parts are made available we can explore this further.


5) It's tougher and more break resistent than I expected.As I said, these are 'rejects'. There is some flaw in every piece. But, that is a good thing when it comes to helping do a thorough evaluation. For instance, 2 layers on one piece were misaligned. This left a 2 layer point jutting out that was perfect for testing the materials resistance to breakage. I tapped MUCH harder than I would have dared with a piece created in a Z-450 3D Printer and it did not break. I will actually video tape my attempt to see how much force is required to break it. I also dropped a partially build ducky about a foot with no visible damage. So, toughness seems to be one of the strengths of the Desktop Factory system.


I was already seriously considering purchasing the Desktop Factory when it is finally shipped. But, now I am certain that we want one. The materials, while not perfect, definitely exceeded my expectations for the lowest cost entry in the commercial desktop 3D printing marketplace. My daughter was very positive in believing that she could artistically exploit the material's properties and characteristics. And, that was the real test for me.

I will be shooting some images and videos of the materials, as they came to me and as I process them in various ways... like trying to break it, heat it, coat it and further smooth it.
I'll share these as I can.

But, it's important for you to realize that I do NOT have the most current materials or items that they can now produce. So, we'll be dealing with the 'worse case' scenario and should expect some level of improvement in subsequent samples. Even so, I definitely like what I see.

Please let me know what YOU would like to know about the materials.

[cem]

Tom let me know if you do decide to purchase one when they come out as I would like to hear some real user experience, I'm probably going to get the milling machine but I'm still going to follow the technology as now that Canon is involved it might actually sell for a fairly decent price in Australia.

The milling machine suits my needs more at the moment as I will be using carving wax and can reuse it (will be making a mold and doing limited runs in resin) but if that was to change in the future the V-Flash might become a good bet.

But like you I would like to know what the post-print techniques are like (how much sanding required, paint types etc)

Thankyou for sharing your initial observations

Cheers,

Clair

[voriax]

Hmm, I work with a couple of rapid prototype machines (Zcorp and Dimension) and I'm a bit dubious about the V-Flash unit. They don't give any real details about the device, and the "video" is pretty obscure, being just an animated gif (!). They don't even explain this "disruptive film transfer imaging" technique.. Any other rapid prototype machine will have at least some details on the process....
Eh. Maybe I'm just a cynic. The Desktop Factory machine looks like fun, though.

[subtlebluetones]

wow.


looks like 3d modelling is actulally gonna turn into real 3d modelling.

Soon the front page will be filled with who has made the best transformer from individual mechanical parts, manually pieced together, for full transformations and articulation.

This is so cool. I wish i could get in on the ground floor and buy one of these now. shame.

by the time i can afford it, people will already be experts with it, and it will deter me cos ill feel like i can not compete.

How cool though. I want one BAD .... :(

[TomMeeks]

Tom let me know if you do decide to purchase one when they come out as I would like to hear some real user experience, I'm probably going to get the milling machine but I'm still going to follow the technology as now that Canon is involved it might actually sell for a fairly decent price in Australia.

The milling machine suits my needs more at the moment as I will be using carving wax and can reuse it (will be making a mold and doing limited runs in resin) but if that was to change in the future the V-Flash might become a good bet.

But like you I would like to know what the post-print techniques are like (how much sanding required, paint types etc)

Thankyou for sharing your initial observations

Cheers,

Clair

So far, I've been very pleased by the way the Desktop Factory materials behave when I try the standard things like sanding, drilling and stressing. Obviously, it's still in development and their goal is to bring it to the point where very little post processing would even be needed. But, most artists are used to making little tweaks and unique touches, so the fact that the material is easy to work with is a plus.

[TomMeeks]

Hmm, I work with a couple of rapid prototype machines (Zcorp and Dimension) and I'm a bit dubious about the V-Flash unit. They don't give any real details about the device, and the "video" is pretty obscure, being just an animated gif (!). They don't even explain this "disruptive film transfer imaging" technique.. Any other rapid prototype machine will have at least some details on the process....
Eh. Maybe I'm just a cynic. The Desktop Factory machine looks like fun, though.

The fact that Canon will be building the V-Flash is encouraging. But, you are right. The Desktop Factory management has been a lot more transparent about operating costs and material properties than has 3D Systems with the V-Flash. I have asks both companies for parts to test and only Desktop Factory was willing to send some.

The only description I was given when I asked about the strength of the V-Flash's output was that it was equal to that of SLA printers. From what little I now know about the V-Flash materials, I'm guessing that it will be much prettier than that of the Desktop Factory, right out of the machine; but, will not be as tough.

I was testing a 1.5" disk (1/4" thick) of Desktop Factory materials under a benchtop buffer by simply hand holding it. I got the angle wrong a couple of times and the piece was flung around the room at high speed. It didn't break or dent!!! It's TOUGH stuff!

[TomMeeks]

wow.

looks like 3d modelling is actulally gonna turn into real 3d modelling.

Soon the front page will be filled with who has made the best transformer from individual mechanical parts, manually pieced together, for full transformations and articulation.

This is so cool. I wish i could get in on the ground floor and buy one of these now. shame.

by the time i can afford it, people will already be experts with it, and it will deter me cos ill feel like i can not compete.

How cool though. I want one BAD .... :(

Why not set up a time share, or shared ownership arrangement, with some other artists that also would like to have one. I'm going to be offering time on mine to local 3D artists and CAD designers in exchange for their expertise at 3D design. It seems to me that a 3D printer is one of those tools that would work well in a shared ownership or cooperative arrangement.

[subtlebluetones]

Why not set up a time share, or shared ownership arrangement, with some other artists that also would like to have one. I'm going to be offering time on mine to local 3D artists and CAD designers in exchange for their expertise at 3D design. It seems to me that a 3D printer is one of those tools that would work well in a shared ownership or cooperative arrangement.

thats a very good idea. i dont know anybody else who would be interested in it though, and even if i found 4 other people, it would still be a grand each. still though. good idea, and i will look out for the oppurtunity to do so, if i find enough people.

im actually thinking to approach some copier places and enquire weather they will be purchasing one of these. and if not, i will bring it to their attention, and suggest the possibility of expansion. im sure something new and innovative like this would be a great way of expanding business.

if it becomes popular, they would quite easily be able to make the money back at about 30 pounds a print. I think there are already companies that do this, like 3d art to part, or something like that.

:)

[csven]

When I first heard about the V-Flash system, I did a little digging. I'm thinking they're using a variant of the InVision system: http://blog.rebang.com/?p=1174

[TomMeeks]

thats a very good idea. i dont know anybody else who would be interested in it though, and even if i found 4 other people, it would still be a grand each. still though. good idea, and i will look out for the oppurtunity to do so, if i find enough people.

im actually thinking to approach some copier places and enquire weather they will be purchasing one of these. and if not, i will bring it to their attention, and suggest the possibility of expansion. im sure something new and innovative like this would be a great way of expanding business.

if it becomes popular, they would quite easily be able to make the money back at about 30 pounds a print. I think there are already companies that do this, like 3d art to part, or something like that.

:)

When trying to envision who might also want to use a 3D printer, the numbers might be small because we tend to think of those that do what we do.

But, with a little pondering, other applications pop up. For instance, model train enthusiasts could use one for layouts. Custom cabinet makers could use one for creating or recreating rare or custom drawer pulls and decorative accessories. Students could use it to test their CAD or 3D designs. Board game enthusiasts could use it to create their own personalized play environment. Ceramics artists could use it for creating molds. The list continues to grow, the more time you think about 3D printing. So, your group could easily grow well beyond 5 people. :)

[TomMeeks]

When I first heard about the V-Flash system, I did a little digging. I'm thinking they're using a variant of the InVision system: http://blog.rebang.com/?p=1174

The sample video is pretty hard to decode. But, I think I have the basic process right.

If I understand it, the way the V-Flash works is that a cartridge contains all the photocurable liquid resin and a sheet that rolls in and out of the cartridge carrying a film of liguid to the build table... much like dipping a loop into bubble soap.

It appears that the film sheet is spring loaded inside the cartridge. It's attached to a fixture that pulls it out across the build area to create each layer and lets it roll back in to pick up more liquid material. Once it's pulled out, a bottom mounted laser or light traces the shape of the part's layer to cure the resin. Then a platform drops down from the top and into the thin photocured liguid film and presses down to pick up the layer. So, the part is built upside down and hangs from a support platform at the top of the build area.

No powder is used in the V-Flash system. Only liquids.

So... by the numbers I think it goes like this.

1) A support panel in attached to the upper platform in the build chamber.
2) A puller extracts a spring loaded sheet that has been coated with the liquid resin creating a thin film of liquid on the sheet.
3) A light traces the layer's shape and photocures the liquid
4) The top platform lowers to pick up the photocured layer
5) The springloaded sheet, along with the uncured liquid, retracts back into the cartridge and repeats 2-5 repeatedly until the object is built.
6) The top platform is removed and the part is broken loose from the temporary supports.
7) ... perhaps some final post-processing. Unclear.

[csven]

Glad you took a look; I was thinking something else: a continuous spool instead of a spring-loaded sheet. I did a quick google and found this:

(reference: cache file of http://rapid.lpt.fi/rp-ml-current/0244.html (http://72.14.209.104/search?q=cache:fNqj3ug_HLwJ:rapid.lpt.fi/rp-ml-current/0244.html+%22Film+Transfer+Imaging%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=10&gl=us) )

Couple of notes on the V Flash. I had the pleasure of hearing Buddy
Byrum talk to us about the machine, he is the Program Manager (I think)
for V Flash. Todd Grimm and Mike Miller from Boeing in attendance at
our session, lots of good questions asked.

Machine price is $9,900, no price yet on consumables.

Very simple, elegant design, few moving parts, 3D sees no need for a
maintenance contract for the machine. Much of the mechanisms are
included in the resin cartridge, consumables like lights easily
replaceable.

The SLA like resin is introduced into the 6.75x9x8 (z) inch build
chamber by a film that slides in and out of the cartridge, which holds
1.5 Kg of material. 3D calls this film transfer imaging. The resin is
cured by white and UV light.

Parts are built on an injection molded platform that includes most of
the supports. The parts are built hanging down from the platform, which
is thrown away after the build process and part removal. The platform
moves down into the resin on the film, and the layer is transferred from
the film to the parts on the platform based on the depth the platform
penetrated ( can do .002 -.004), using their proprietary imaging
technique.

Machine can build at a rate of .6 to .75 cubic inches per hour, that may
be able to increases to 1 cubic inch with tweaking. SLA machine like
repeatability and accuracy. Pixel size .0088 in.

Parts emerge dry and fully cured, so support structures are stronger,
smaller than SLA. The parts shown (two small parts) had really nice
nice finishes. Buddy said side walls are not built vertical, so
stepping much less than on SLA.

Seemed to have impressive software features, remote monitoring, software
updates, auto queuing and nesting, etc.

I like this better. I was thinking the accordianed support material was from a continuous spool, which might create more waste than necessary.

While searching, I also happened across comments by people wondering if 3D Systems could handle orders for their new system as they seemed to doubt 3D Systems' business efficiency and financial health. This partnership with Canon might be the best thing for them... and maybe us.

[TomMeeks]

Great find! :)

The Canon connection is important for everyone involved. 3D Systems obviously had great products; but, money and manufacturing power are required to move from a low volume level to a high volume level and having a connection with Canon probably doesn't hurt on either of those accounts. And, it's a good strategic move for Canon... allowing them to put a toe in the water without fear of making a false step and falling in. :)

Glad you took a look; I was thinking something else: a continuous spool instead of a spring-loaded sheet. I did a quick google and found this:

(reference: cache file of http://rapid.lpt.fi/rp-ml-current/0244.html (http://72.14.209.104/search?q=cache:fNqj3ug_HLwJ:rapid.lpt.fi/rp-ml-current/0244.html+%22Film+Transfer+Imaging%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=10&gl=us) )



I like this better. I was thinking the accordianed support material was from a continuous spool, which might create more waste than necessary.

While searching, I also happened across comments by people wondering if 3D Systems could handle orders for their new system as they seemed to doubt 3D Systems' business efficiency and financial health. This partnership with Canon might be the best thing for them... and maybe us.

[NextTodd]

We just got one of the Dimension 3D printers (on loan from Dimension) in our office. I printed a few models and all I can say is wow! It's even fun to watch it printing.

The model we have uses two materials, ABS plastic, plus a disolvable support structure. When the print is done you submerge it into a bath to melt away the extra material. The only downside I see so far is that the material spools are a little pricey - about $12 per cubic inch of material. Fortunately the software is good at using sparse honycomb fills for the pastic and supports to conserve material.

I work at NextEngine and it's been fun printing out my scans at various scales. Check out some of the scans in my gallery

http://nexttodd.cgsociety.org/gallery

- Todd

[TomMeeks]

We just got one of the Dimension 3D printers (on loan from Dimension) in our office. I printed a few models and all I can say is wow! It's even fun to watch it printing.

The model we have uses two materials, ABS plastic, plus a disolvable support structure. When the print is done you submerge it into a bath to melt away the extra material. The only downside I see so far is that the material spools are a little pricey - about $12 per cubic inch of material. Fortunately the software is good at using sparse honycomb fills for the pastic and supports to conserve material.

I work at NextEngine and it's been fun printing out my scans at various scales. Check out some of the scans in my gallery

http://nexttodd.cgsociety.org/gallery

- Todd

Sorry, Todd. I was on vacation when you replied and I completely missed your reply.

Low cost scanners, like the NextEngine, will have an extremely important part to play in the success and proliferation of 3D printers. Ever since I saw your first scans, I've been drooling over the NextEngine. :)

While hardware technology is appealing, what really impresses me about the maturation of the NextEngine is the importance that the company seems to be placing on getting the software right and bundling different packages to appeal to the needs of different classes of users. In talking with executives in the 3D printing industry, I often use NextEngine as a great example of a company that recognizes SOFTARE as a critical component of their HARDWARE capabilities.

By the way, the scans in the gallery are phenominal. The one that most applies to my original reasons for looking at the NextEngine and 3D Modeling is the shell. Holes are not trivial to capture. I'm also a fan of ObjectVR so I also enjoyed the full rotation presentation of the figure and the incredible detail it demonstrates. Nice job.

[CGTalk Moderation]

This thread has been automatically closed as it remained inactive for 12 months. If you wish to continue the discussion, please create a new thread in the appropriate forum.