It looks like the big players in the additive manufacturing market are taking the potential of the 3D printing home market seriously with the introduction of a new 3D printer from 3D Systems specifically geared to the home market, and rumors of a possible entry into this market by Stratasys. Research firm IBISWorld forecasts that by 2016, 3D printing sales could reach $3 Billion. The idea that toys could be a huge market for 3D printing (some suggest as much as $10 Billion a year) is also causing many to pay attention to the home market.
So, 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) just introduced its entrant into this market, the Cube™ at the CES show this week. This sleek looking design is priced at $1,299, and is ready to print out of the box in a range of vibrant colors; no assembly needed. It really does look good, the engineers did a nice job in keeping in the needed 3D printing elements while controlling costs. And it can print a range of designs for form and fit, and even shoes.
The printer includes consumer friendly features such as the tablet-like, touch screen. It weighs less than 9 pounds and uses EZ Load cartridges available in a range of colors. In addition, the printer comes with a membership to Cubify.com, with access to 50 free printable creations.
“With the Cube™ printer, personal 3D printing becomes a reality for everyone,” said Rajeev Kulkarni, Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Solutions for 3D Systems. “Every affordable, easy to use 3D printer we bring to the market underscores our commitment to democratize access and accelerate adoption of our 3D content-to-print solutions for the benefit of consumers, artists and developers alike.”
The company plans to fully commercialize the Cube™ personal 3D printer during the first half of 2012.
