Part of the reason 3D printing technology has grown so fast is overwhelming support it’s had, from both the scientific and casual communities. From building their own printers to supporting Kickstarter projects, the world has made it clear that they want 3D printing technology.
Right now, there are dozens of Kickstarter projects that are either successfully funded or nearing their goal. In case you wan’t to show your support, or are just curious about the next round of 3D printing innovations, we’ve gathered a few of the latest and coolest 3D printers found on Kickstarter.
1) Printrbot – Status: Funded
Image Credit Printrbot
The Printerbot is a small, affordable 3D printer that you purchase and assemble. The project was successfully funded back in December of 2011, raising $830,000 – 33 times more than their initial $25,000. Yes, that means you can actually go order a Printrbot right now, for under $1000, and have it shipped right to your front door.
The Printerbot uses ABS filament – the same material that Legos are made out of. It plugs into your computer with a USB cable, allowing you to print you own designs from your home office. For the hobbyist, designer, or anyone looking to have some fun with a 3D printer, this machine is a great way to get started.
2) DeltaMaker – Status: Funded
Image credit DeltaMaker
Some 3D printers are designed only for function; the DeltaMaker takes form into consideration, too. The printer looks like something you’d find in a science fiction novel, not something you’d see in a standard factory. The creators of the printer wanted the process of creation to be an art form, and they’ve certainly succeeded.
The DeltaMaker was only funded recently; it reached its goal at the end of February, 2013. A few models have already been made, but they’re currently on back order; you’ll have to wait for a new batch to be made before you can have on in your living room.
3) The 3D Doodler – Status: Funded
Image credit The 3D Doodler
No list of Kickstarter 3D printers would be complete without a mention of the 3D Doodler. Technically, the 3D doodler isn’t an actual printer; it’s a pen that uses ABS filament instead of ink. That means that you can literally draw a creation in the air, and watch it come to life in front of you. Obviously, you can’t create solid, usable objects ; you would need a real 3D printer for that. Instead, the 3D Doodler is made for art, or for fun. You can take your drawing up off the paper, and bring it to life in front of you.
The 3D Doodler reached funding status on March 24th, 2013, and isn’t available for purchase yet, but it should be fairly soon.
4) Zortax M200 – Status: Campaigning
Image Credit Zortax M200
What if, instead of a regular printer sitting in your office, you had an actual 3D printing machine? The Zortax M200 is an elegant black box that contains the entire 3D printing process inside. You don’t need to assemble it or go through a setup process; just plug it in, download a design, and print it.
The Zortax campaign is still running on Kickstarter. Although the initial goal has been met, you can still support the campaign if you want. The more funding they get, the better the final product will be.
There are countless other 3D printers on Kickstarter, promising everything from at-home printing to an advance in technology. Keep supporting these campaigns, either by funding them or sharing them; the more people that know about this technology, the better it’s going to get.