3D printing, CNC, laser cutting integrated manufacturing equipment Versa3D

On July 19, 2016, CreateAll, a 3D printing company from Cincinnati, USA, launched a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter for Versa3D, its versatile desktop manufacturing device. It is reported that Versa3D integrates 3D printing, CNC and laser cutting capabilities into one, which is convenient and easy to use. The full version of the early bird price is 3499 US dollars.

People often have different opinions about the versatile manufacturing equipment. On the one hand, because it combines the functions of 3D printing, CNC milling machines and laser cutting machines, it can minimize the footprint and is also beneficial for speeding up production and saving costs. At the same time, the skeptics pointed out that the combination of such versatility increases the possibility of machine failure, and that such equipment is often “all the way, not fine”, and those rigorous designers often do not want to choose such a “ The same machine as Wanjin Oil.

However, Versa3D seems to be different, not only claiming to avoid the drawbacks that multifunction machines usually have. In fact, it can beat many 3D printers on the market in terms of print speed, build size and compatible materials. Three years ago, when the CreateAll team was founded, it was the team's sole purpose to create faster, larger, and more flexible 3D printers. But they quickly realized that the technology they researched and developed was equally effective for other manufacturing processes.

After integrating a spindle and laser into the 3D printer, the CreateAll team designed several prototypes until one was said to have exceeded the “all expectations of the machine”. In addition, the machine is fully modular, so customers can choose to purchase only 3D printing modules, or any combination of three modules to suit their specific manufacturing needs.

Moreover, Versa3D's technical specifications are impressive only in terms of 3D printing, with a maximum 3D print size of 300 x 300 x 221 mm and a print speed of 300 mm/sec. Moreover, in order to achieve high-speed 3D printing, the device uses a rack and pinion drive system, and V-wheel movement to achieve smooth motion. In order to achieve its set material compatibility goals, the CreateAll team also installed dual printheads on the 3D printing module.

In addition, usability is another aspect of the CreateAll team. The aluminum frame Versa3D also provides quick and easy features to make operation easier, such as wireless smartphone/tablet control, drag-and-drop built-in slicing, and more. The machine also uses BuildTak (a thin and durable plastic sheet) on the build board for maximum adhesion.

Based on the principle of three-axis operation, the CNC milling machine uses a NEMA17 motor with almost no sound and a 300W spindle, making it ideal for office use. The laser cutting machine uses a 2500 MW adjustable focus laser head and can be engraved at 300 mm/s.

Kickstarter's event was launched later that day, and supporters can buy it at an early bird price. For Versa3D with only one 3D printing module, supporters can pre-order for $2,999, two modules cost $3,299, and the full machine for all three modules costs $3,499. The estimated delivery time for these early bird price orders is January 2017.

(Compiled from 3Ders.org)

(Editor)