Jan 23, 2015
3D printer online store RepRap Central has announced a tough 3D Printer Challenge to the 3D printing community.
The 2015 3D Printer Challenge is asking makers to create a "FLM" 3D printer, which stands for Fused Layer Manufacturing. And it is a 3D printer that 'will print a complete layer at a time'.
"We could have set a challenge this year to build your own FDM 3D Printer, but we wanted to do something that could revolutionise the 3D Printing revolution itself", notes the company in its blog.
"Imagine the benefits of this type of 3D Printer. Very rapid build times, super smooth vertical operation, a level of accuracy yet to be experienced and super quiet operation." They write.
Unlike the current X, Y, Z Axis used today in most existing FDM 3D Printers, the "FLM" 3D printer only need a (Vertical) Z Axis. That means with this design a special extruding mechanism will print an entire layer at once.
The idea is that an innovative 'active extruder' would be key to the design. "We think it may even fill the width and depth of the entire X and Y build area. It could be a hybrid extruder possibly made from a mix of technologies, 3d printing/injection moulding/? controlled at high resolution layer level."
Its not going to be easy to do this. But if we could invent such a system, 'we'll jump light years ahead of current designs and catapult ourselves into the future.' notes RepRap Central.
We hope you'll play a part, whether its to critique the proposal, put forward ideas, come up with designs or even build an FLM prototype. The challenge is open to anyone, individual or Business and the winning design or designs will be announced later in the year.
The company says more information on the challenge is coming soon, and they will "provide an environment where we can all share ideas and contribute thoughts and designs."
Posted in 3D Printing Events
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