3D printer filament provider Zeni Kinetic has added a new product to their shelf, and it’s not another type of filament; it’s a full-fledged 3D printer.
The “Origin” 3D printer launches on Kickstarter today. The machine is, obviously, one that uses plastic filament. It’s a rather attractive machine, boasting “open180 degree design, which gives easy access to printed items and internal components”. While the main portion of the machine’s case is white, the sides are available in Dark Grey, Light Grey, Blue, Red, Aqua or Raspberry. All look pretty good.
Technically the Origin is a pretty capable fully-assembled machine, with a generous build volume of 300 x 300 x 250mm. It comes with a selection of differently-sized hot end nozzles for various accuracies and print speeds. Extruder movement ranges up to 150mm/sec within the aluminum internal frame. Each machine is equipped with no less than four 1kg spools of filament. Also, the specs state:
After you order you will receive a coupon via email that will let you just go to the store and pick any 4 1-kg spools you like from our entire selection.
We’re not sure if this means you get eight or four spools in total, but either four or eight is a pretty good deal.
The Origin has a couple of optional features, the presence of which defines the three different Origin models: Prime, Plus and Ultimate. Prime (USD$699) is the basic model. Plus (USD$889) adds a dual extruder and a heated bed for printing experimental filaments. Ultimate (USD$1,150) adds an LCD control panel, upgraded controller and print speeds, an SD card slot for unattended operation and an “auto software calibration sensor” for “Easy bed leveling”. At these prices we suspect the company could become feasible in the long term, as opposed to some of the ultra-low priced models from other manufacturers.
We have no experience with the Origin yet, but it seems to have the right specs and price for a decent personal 3D printer. It could be a great option to consider.
We’re also fascinated by the company, Zeni Kinetic, who entered the 3D print space through manufacturing of 3D printer filament. It may be that they wish to encourage their existing filament business by complementing it with a personal 3D printer. Hopefully their launch campaign will succeed.
Via Zeni Kinetic
