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$470 RepRap Derived 3D Printer Going Into Production
An anonymous reader writes "South African makerstore OpenHardware.co.za has designed and built a new RepRap-derivative 3D printer which it plans to sell for less than R5000 ($470). The first completed units are being put together now, with an eye to shipping late June. Store owner Peter van der Walt says that he designed Babybot — which has a print area equivalent to a RepRap Prusa Mendel-style machine — in order to reduce build and support costs. He's been selling various RepRap designs in kit form for two years, but as they become more popular is struggling to keep up with demand and handle returns. By sourcing more materials locally — he also designs his own controller boards — he's looking to beat the likes of RS Components and large shopping chains which have begun shipping the likes of Cubify in the country."
have fun hacking the filament reels on da vinci and generally not fixing/replacing anything.
this thing looks pretty solid corexy (I think) setup. should get nice speeds and all the parts are replaceable and no properiaty shit with filament and free choice of slicer sw.. this looks more like it could run production.
world was created 5 seconds before this post as it is.
Hi - there's only one picture of the OpenCNC machine, with a caption that says "The OpenCNC machine on which the new printer is based. The rest are all of the new printer.
I agree, it does look a lot more solid. I'm starting to think 3D printers are getting into the price range that they might be worth purchasing. I think the last thing I'm waiting on is for the price of 3D scanners to come down. If I could get a combination unit, basically this thing with a built in scanner, for about the same price, I'd probably pull the trigger. The ability to put in a plastic part and push a "Copy" button would be of great use to me and many of my projects.