HP Planning Mainstream 3D Printers
HP's upcoming line of 3-D printers may cost around $15,000.
A few months ago, we reported on a 3D copier that scans an object and molds a smaller, physical black and white version. Now it seems that HP is preparing to mass-produce printers capable of creating three-dimensional plastic models that will likely target hobbyists and small design businesses.
According to Wired, 3D printers have been around for some time, available only for high-end industrial designers and architects using AutoCAD and other computer aided design programs. But with HP now "embracing" the technology for the mainstream market, smaller business will be able to "print" 3D artifacts based on their virtual 3D creations.
"This is the boldest step we have seen so far in 3D printing," said Scott Summit, chief technology officer for Bespoke Innovations.
"A lot of people want to do 3D printing but it is a mysterious world. With HP embracing it, it is likely to demystify the idea to many consumers."
Stratasys, a veteran 3D printer manufacturer, will build the new line of HP 3D printers. The former company already offers a desktop 3D printer costing around the $15,000 price range--this tag may accompany HP's line of printers when they finally hit the market. However, Wired added that do-it-yourself hobbyists have managed to create a 3D printer--the Makerbot--for a meager $950.
Currently HP has not released official pricing and availability for its upcoming line of 3D printers, so stay tuned.
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AWESOME!
Now lets see them "print" a transistor with it. Then a diode. Then a CPU.
This would be really nice for CAD designers, engineers,etc who are just starting up esp. starting their own business. If this can be made for less than $2500 with similar features to the high end Rapid prototypers/3D printers, I can see this helping out quite a decent amount of people in their jobs/business.
AWESOME!Now lets see them "print" a transistor with it. Then a diode. Then a CPU.
You wouldn't use a 3d printer for that, they are already experimenting with printers that can print circuits.
Honestly, I've had enough of this new 3D shit. And only companies are people that are really really wealthy are going to buy this.
Don't get me wrong, concept is really, really cool. But practical applications? Psh, yeah, ok..
"And only companies are people that are really really wealthy are going to buy this."
Yeah, I bet they're the same guys with personal computers in their offices, Mr. 1975.
It's about time. The technology has been around for a long time. I don't know if they have a market though. Where I am, there are tons of rapid prototyping shops with day-after service. The technology (materials, printers, resolution) improves very quickly. I don't think I would invest in one unless it becomes my bread & butter. In my experiance, clients want the best quality prototypes - and the $2500 (or even the $15000) last year model will not deliver.
modeling and art...and perhaps, depending on how strong the material is, it can be used to make some spare parts for various things. a grill for a case fan, door handle, a cup holder attached to my monitor?
i'm faily sure every guy will print out some hot girl for the funnies but once it runs out of material to print the models, how much will it cost to replace?
It is now also time for a new wave of printer rage. if you thought paper jams were bad, imagine the headaches this can cause
More information on the deal signed with Stratasys here:
They make some pretty cool stuff. They made a full scale model of an aircraft engine with their printers! See here:
Hrmm links didnt get in... Link tool broken?
Stratasys 3d printer deal with HP
http://www.reuters.com/finance/sto [...] 0119110000
You tube video of full scale turboprop:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALA2Gp59_IM
Thank you Very much for that MakerBot link!!!
I have been dreaming about having one of these for Many years, but did not know they were so accessible hehehe
Already dreaming about what I can be making with it.
Ah man
This would be epic to play a joke on someone with. Just get into their network and print out a giant penis then quickly leave.
you can print circuits in our optoelectronic lab...it's done on pcb artist then we laminate onto the copper.
This would be epic to play a joke on someone with. Just get into their network and print out a giant penis then quickly leave.
I NEED ONE OF THESE PRINTERS!
All my neighbors could have a set of my balls hanging around. ^_^
The MakerBot is also damned cool. =D
Only if your printer runs out of ink when you were trying to create your avatar...
If these devices become cheaper to operate and own, they can be a god-sent for people that want to start selling hobby items like: model kit upgrade parts, unpainted figures, etc. Currently these require incredibly expensive injection molding dies or require labour intensive resin casting.
Since HP makes it, the drivers will also install 27 useless programs that no one wants, 18 of which will automatically run on startup.
LOL
Once cheap laser scanners come out...
they will be trying to ban these to stop people making illegal copies of all kindsa stuff xD
Plastic? Oh no! Save the environment!
Is cheap, and when done with item, can be melted down again, extruded into suitable thread to be re-used in next item - no waste...
almost perfect
enter a new age of piracy
Here is the Open Source Reprap machine:
http://reprap.org