The World’s First 3D Desktop Printer

Every now and again someone somewhere in the world comes up with an innovation that changes everything. The wheel, the printing press, electric lighting and the internal combustion engine are just a few inventions that impacted society in ways we could never have imagined at the time of their development.

3D printing has already inspired a host  of 'this-could-change-the-world' debates. What will mass automation mean for the workforce? Are 'printed houses' the same as architecture? What does the firing of the first 3D printed gun portend? And now, there's a promise that the world's first 3D desktop printer is about to hit the market.

botObjects, a New York City-based software development company that 'focuses on providing powerful, yet simple-to-use, non-technical printing software', is currently taking early orders for the ProDesk 3D. Just like a regular 2D printer, it features a 5-colour PLA cartridge system, which can blend primary colours to create the whole spectrum.

The need for the usual application of finishing touches, which can involve some nasty chemicals, has been removed, through the inclusion of PVA-based Support Material. Moreover, the accompanying software has been streamlined and simplified to automatically perform the tasks of auto-setting the printer, and self-calibrating the printer bed. PLA-based 3D models and ABS material are both supported, and 25 micron accuracy is promised.

It all sounds too good to be true, and, given that no one has yet laid their eyes or hands on the ProDesk 3D, some writers have posted sceptical comments. Joseph Laherty of Wired tweeted 'Lack of a proof of concept printed part is especially damning'.

However, in a May 13 interview with cnet.com.au, botObjects founder Martin Warner attempted to reassure cynics. Reluctant to expand on the information provided on the company's website, Warner instead asserted, 'You'd better believe it's coming. At the outside, we're talking two-and-a-half weeks before more information will become available.'

[Via Inhabitat]