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'factory in a box'
Posted: Tue Jan 11, 2011 4:54 am
by michael robinson
an intersting development from the USA
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/ ... astic.html
regards
Michael
Posted: Tue Jan 11, 2011 8:21 am
by John Fitzsimons
Amazing machine.
Posted: Tue Jan 11, 2011 8:48 am
by Adrian Harris
They're certainly getting there - and apparently for only ~£750
Adrian.
Factory in a Box
Posted: Tue Jan 11, 2011 9:13 am
by Stephen White
Interesting, thanks for posting it.
There is a UK based equivalent, Bits from Bytes, based in Bristol. They are marketing a kit based on an open source project called RepRap. They are in much the same price bracket although their lower end kits seem to need a bit of assembly. Links here:
http://www.bitsfrombytes.com/
I suppose you still need the 3D modelling skills.
Regards
Stephen
Posted: Wed Jan 12, 2011 1:04 am
by Robert E Morey
Stephen,
These machines build a part from a .STL file which is created from 3D CAD software. I've been playing with the Alibre demo and it is very good 3D parametric CAD program, easy to use, and quite inexpensive depending what capabilities you need. I find it very similar to both Inventor and Solidworks CAD packages in capabilites and functionality. It can output a model into the .STL format the maker bot can build. Someday I would like to have one of these machines, the price is getting very affordable. You are correct that you must have the CAD model first. I am not a rep for either nor am I financially tied to either product, just want to help those in the hobby.
http://www.alibre.com/
Bob
Posted: Wed Jan 12, 2011 12:16 pm
by Jim Fowler
I have to say that I have had a chance to play with Alibre's personal edition - I think its around $100.00 and it seems to be very good - atleast to me.
I have to say its at the very least worth a look.
Who knows, maybe someday we will be leasing files to make parts and not buying the parts....that is actually happening today with some manufactures and design firms......