The 2Bot ModelMaker

It's not exactly a 3D printer, but more of a 3D cutter. The 2Bot ModelMaker is intended for architects and students to print 3D representations of landscapes, layouts and terrain.

 

From what we see, it appears to be a 50lb computer controlled drill that traverses an inexpensive 12" x 12" x 2" foam board, cutting out bits to reveal the intended 3D model. While inexpensive (apparently "less than USD$1.00 per model"), this technique obviously has some constraints on the shapes that can be produced. However, there are some fairly sophisticated objects in their sample images. It also accepts 3D models in a variety of formats, including Google Sketchup. 

 

We had great difficulty finding a price for this unit, but finally found evidence that it's priced at a completely astonishing, spray-out-your-beer USD$12,000! No wonder the price is not posted on any of their dealers' sites. We suspect their ongoing USD$500 discount on ModelMaker purchases isn't going to sway your decision.

 

Via 2Bot

Open Source Laser Cutter

We were contacted by Bart Dring of BuildLog.net, which provides a variety of resources for laser cutting tech. Bart says: 

 

I thought you might be interested in my new open source laser cutter.  This is a second generation generation machine called the 2.x Laser.  It is a much more robust and easier to build than the previous buildlog.net laser. It will be release under OSHW (as soon as a logo is picked).  Currently the license is Creative Commons Attribute, Share Alike.

 

We are indeed! According to their post, the 2 axis machine has a third manually controlled vertical axis, and has a build envelope of 12” x 20” x 4”. The T-slot framed machine has upgraded electronics and differs in philosophy from the previous version. Version one attempted to be self-replicating, but this implied a constrained design. The new version instead focuses on robustness for increased functionality rather than replication. 

 

Join their forum to gain access to the design and build yourself a cool laser cutter!

 

Via BuildLog