It seems these days that 3D printers are everywhere, with all shapes, sizes and prices for a variety of needs. Once a new technology becomes more common place, it begins to improve as its usage becomes more widely accepted. A group of engineers has come up with a new 3D printer design that offers a number of features that improve on frustrations they’ve experienced first hand.
Not only is this new 3D printer unique, it has smashed its Kickstarter goal in just a few days…
The Tiko 3D printer uses a unibody design to create a more reliable and functional device that focuses on creating rather than maintaining. After roughly a week on Kickstarter, Tiko 3D has raised more than a million dollars, 10x its original goal. So what’s all the fuss about?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5INdbXX0oYU
It starts with the design, by combining the materials into a unibody build Tiko is able to cut down on production costs and reliability issues. This means that there are fewer opportunities for something to go wrong, because there are less pieces involved. Tiko uses a three arm mechanism to print out 3D models up to 138 cubic inches in size. The whole printer weighs just under four pounds and can hold a standard 1kg roll of filament, plus its non-proprietary system accepts a wide range of printing supplies.
Tiko didn’t just focus on performance, but also a well featured machine. It has wireless printing capabilities, a flexible base for removing finished projects, and an enclosed chamber. The built-in accelerometer can sense when the lid has been raised, ceasing the printer’s operation. Niko’s direct drive system controls a titanium nozzle which requires less energy to operate.
Although this project has blown past its original goal, you can still grab one. The Tiko 3D printer can be had for $179, although shipping has been pushed back to January of next year for this extra round of manufacturing. Early adopters are slated to receive this device before Christmas.
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