[simpits-tech] 3D printer worth it?

[geoff at mechpit.com]

I would lok at the actual output from that Z printer. They used to let you get one object for free. Think of compressed plastic granules. Very open texture, no real strength. The printer is designed for mock-ups and that is about all.

Geoff


-----Original Message-----
From: KD <chevello at rcn.com>
Sent: Wednesday, September 05, 2007 4:37 PM
To: simpits-tech at simpits.org
Subject: [simpits-tech] 3D printer worth it?

Hey folks,

I've been considering for a while whether or not to buy a 3D printer. 
Specifically the ZCorp one here: 
http://www.zcorp.com/products/printersdetail.asp?ID=1 It's single color, 
but I think it's pretty decent for startup. It can do any one color that 
you put in it apparently, so runs of certain colored parts would be 
doable. Eventually if I can swing it I would end up with one of the full 
color ones. They are pretty cool.

I'm looking at several different options and ways to do this, but I'm 
asking around, and finding out how much interest there is out there in 
the sim community for bits and parts made with the thing.

So, here are my questions for you guys: What parts would you be 
interested in seeing produced and what price range would you even 
consider for whatever it is? Is $10 too much for a knob or small part 
you need? $20? $30?

Thinking of knobs and handles, different bezels maybe, could even do 
things like gauge pointers for fairly low cost especially in the 
"introductory period."  :)

Parts and assemblies can get pretty complicated, and prices would adjust 
accordingly, but I'm thinking that cost-wise it may be more efficient 
for a lot of the items in the sim pits to do them this way rather than 
have things machined by a commercial machine shop. I'll probably offer a 
3D modeling service too, so if you can't do that part yourself, I would 
be able to do it from 2D or sketches

Anyways, right now I am gaging interest in a few different areas, trying 
to get a feel for how long it might take to get rolling with the thing. 
There are a few people bugging me to go for it since they want things 
done, but I think they are thinking Monster Garage style freebies.

Thanks for your input.

KeithD


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