Digitally controlled 3D printer improves affordability and accessibility

The printer provides unattended, continuous printing of pieces of almost any length

Spotted: Created by hardware engineer Naomi Wu and produced by 3D print experts Creality3D, the Infinite-Z 3DPrintMill (Creality CR-30) makes small scale three-dimensional printing affordable and provides new capability for large-scale print runs. Whether a single long piece or thousands of the same part, the Infinite-Z makes 3D printing possible almost anywhere.

The printer is all metal, and the motion system is tipped 45 degrees, which is what allows for continuous, unattended printing. Ideal for printing many of the same object, the tilted bed moves each part along until it detaches, eliminating the need for manual removal. Teachers can set the machine for remote use, improving both safety of students and accessibility for users with limited mobility. Cosplayers requiring long swords and other accessories can print a single piece rather than a multitude of small parts. Set designers can print architectural features with a significant reduction in the number of pieces required.

Currently crowdfunding on Kickstarter, the Infinite-Z printer is open source and comes with  contributions and endorsements from industry founders. The Creality team plans to begin shipping of the first production run in March 2021 and continues to develop the machine, for special needs and for inclusion of more niche components.   

From 3D scans of peoples’ faces for customised face masks to plant-based materials, Springwise is spotting a range of innovations that are helping bring 3D printing into the mainstream.

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