CubeX from 3D Systems
Of all the 3D Printing companies that have made the trip to CES in Las Vegas this year, 3D Systems have made the biggest splash with a couple of booths and some big announcements on the first day.
The Cube 3D printer has seen an update with the release of the 'new' cube — this Apple-esque marketing is getting to me now — a reportedly faster, more accurate, more versatile version of the original cube. Or 'old' cube. The old heated metal plate (which I found to be quite successful in reducing lifting of the models when combined with the glue stick provided) has been replaced by a glass plate that can apparently hold down your printed part without heating up. This will go someway to making the Cube more child-friendly as the build plate really did get hot and was easily accessible to prying fingers. Whether the parts stick as well remains to be seen.
The 'new' Cube also features the ability to run both ABS and PLA without fiddling with settings — the proprietary docking system and electronic tagging of materials cartridges means the system auto-detects your materials and does the adjustments for you. Simple simple simple is the ethos here.
The CubeX looks for all the world like a Bits from Bytes machine in its Sunday Best. The machine starts at $2499 and features the ability to print in up to three colours at the same time — like the BfB machines. Touted as the 'ultimate' desktop 3D printer (let's not get ahead of ourselves guys) the CubeX will be available with the same sort of package that allows the out-of-the-box printing that the original Cube touted, namely some material and 3D models.
Sustainability wise, users will be able to return used cartridges for a discount on new ones and return PLA and ABS models for recycling and composting.
I'll be taking a look at the new machines at CES on Thursday — anything you'd like to know?
