Jon's Place

Monday, September 14, 2009

3D Printer

So, I got my Dimension uPrint last week, and got it set up and running. I'm still waiting to get the dissolve tank, but it is supposed to arrive tomorrow.

Here's the first thing I printed on it - all the parts required to build one NanoSeeker prototype. The main shell is in 3 pieces - the nose cone, the main shell, and the tail cone. I'm really curious to see how this new propeller design works - one of the great things about having a 3D printer is the ability to try new designs in very little time, for very little cost.

Right now (as I type this), I'm printing the first set of parts for one of the new BrainBots I'm building. There are five sets of parts for each robot (because the build envelope is limited), and each robot will take a total of about 35 hours to print.

4 Comments:

  • You really know how to make another geek jealous :-p.

    As affordable as the uPrint is, I really wish that 3d printers would enter the 3000 and under range, especially with CNCs being available for as little as 1000.

    How difficult is handling all the software requirements? What are you using to CAD the drawings?

    By Blogger Keith, At September 14, 2009 at 1:51 PM  

  • Well, you can put together a Fab-at-home system for under $3K for sure, although it won't do support, so you can't do hollows or overhangs.

    The software is easy - I use Rhino, export STL files, and they import directly into the software provided with the printer.

    By Blogger Unknown, At September 14, 2009 at 3:21 PM  

  • Really interesting stuff. If you could post a video of the uPrint in action that would be awesome.

    BTW I am very much into robotics myself and look forward to hearing more about your miniature robotic subs.

    By Blogger Keith, At September 15, 2009 at 10:23 AM  

  • I want to quote your post in my blog. It can?
    And you et an account on Twitter?

    By Anonymous Anonymous, At December 25, 2009 at 10:20 AM  

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