Objet Has Done it Again

As I mentioned previously, at this time of year there is nothing particularly surprising about new product launches into the RP/RM market. However, more surprising is the fact that for the second year running Objet Geometries is launching a completely new machine. Euromold 2007 saw the introduction of the Connex500 by the company, and the fourth quarter of 2008 brings with it the launch of the new Alaris30 desktop 3D printer, announced just an hour ago — and the machine will be on show at TCT next week in Coventry for the first time.

The technology itself is not new, the Alaris is based on Objet’s proprietary PolyJet process, similarly there are no new materials, currently the standalone material for this RP platform is VeroWhite, with its mechanical characteristics that are proven and well suited to functional RP. What is new is the size of the machine and the price/performance ratio, and it is intended to make anyone considering an entry-level RP machine sit up and take notice. And so they should. Objet is offering the Alaris with the same quality and resolution promises that it gives with its other higher spec machine ranges.

This machine cannot be placed in the same category as the Connex was last year with the “revolutionary” and “ground-breaking” adjectives attached to it, but it could just have a similarly profound effect in shaking up the market place. New entry-level RP users are the foundation for the whole RP / RM user base. Think of it in the same way as the housing market — when the number of first-time buyers increases, the market flourishes, and vice versa. So too with the RP / RM market, when first time users start buying their own machines and find real added value in using them, experimenting with them and building their businesses with them the rest of the market will benefit as the word spreads, new applications are developed and the number of machines purchased — in the same or a higher category — increases.

I am seriously looking forward to seeing this technology next week, and watch out for a more detailed update!

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‘Tis the Season …….2008

And so it begins! 

Today 3D Systems has announced the launch of its new iPro 9000 XL SLA Centre for the production of extra-large, high-definition ‘Pro Parts’ for prototyping and end-use. The company plans to present this new system during its World Conference later this month and begin commercial shipments of the system soon after.

I must apologise for the reference to Christmas while still in October — but if my local high street is anything to go by, you would think it was next week! Another soap box for another time. But, as thoughts do turn that way the RPD sector is gearing up for the fourth quarter influx of new products. The number of highly publicised trade events such as TCT, Euromold and the 3D Systems event, which all take place towards the end of each year tend to coincide with the new marketing campaigns of companies launching new machines and materials as it gives them an excellent platform on which to do it with a captive audience.

Mcor Technologies is another example, and this Irish company is using the TCT Event in a couple of weeks as the launch pad for its new 3D printer. There will be more on that once I have had a chance to see it in action.

It will be exciting to see what is headed our way, and the new processes and technologies that will be available throughout 2009 for RP / RM applications.

Watch this space though, there will be more announcements in the coming days, I would bet my last pound on it ………

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