The Sculpto+ must be one of the most unusual 3D printers I’ve encountered.
Built by a two-year old Danish company, this machine’s motion system operates quite differently from other desktop 3D printers, which typically use a cartesian X-Y-Z axis motion system. There are a few machines that use the delta robot approach as well.
The Sculpto machine uses not one, but two circular paths for its motion system: the build plate, upon which the printed object sits, rotates in either direction; and a swing arm traces a curve from its elbow-like mechanism to hold the hot end in position.
This video shows how it works:
This rotational system also permits other uses, as shown in this amusing video from Sculpto (in Danish):
Aside from the unusual motion system, the device is designed for consumer use as it includes a variety of ease-of-use features.
The Sculpto 3D printer is operated wirelessly from an app. Here you can see several screenshots showing the extensive capability of the system. You can, for example, pull 3D models directly from their repository, or add your own STL files if required. The printer’s operation is also directly viewable and controllable.
The machine itself has virtually no onboard controls; it’s inteded that you plug it in and operate it via the app.
As you might expect for a consumer-style machine, this unit prints only in PLA filament. While Sculpto sells filament, it appears you can use other 1.75mm filament if you so desire. Just make sure it’s PLA plastic!
The build volume of this machine is sufficient tor most consumer needs, with an obviously cylindrical size of 200mm diameter and 160mm tall. How big is that? This big:
The machine sells for a very low price of only €399 (USD$469), which should be within reach of many consumers. Evidently it became one of the “most popular 3D printers in Denmark.”
Meanwhile, the company is hinting at something new, the Sculpto+, which is apparently to be released in the future via Kickstarter. They are not yet releasing much about this new machine, other than saying it is “even better”, and that it operates near silent.
Via Sculpto
