3DRobotics Releases 3D Printable IRIS+ Drone Free on MyMiniFactory

March 16, 2016 by Scott J Grunewald 3D Design 3D Printing Robotics

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Berkeley-based drone manufacturer 3DRobotics has teamed up with 3D printable model marketplace MyMiniFactory to release a free 3D printable version of their flagship drone the IRIS+. The original IRIS+ was launched back in 2014 and included a state-of-the-art microprocessor co-developed with Intel. At the time, it was one of the most advanced consumer drones ever released. It was the first drone to include the first true Follow Me technology that allowed users to go hands-free with their drone while it followed the user wherever they went and would automatically keep the camera centered on them.

As strong proponents of open source technology, 3DR has decided to release all of the 3D printable files for the IRIS+ exclusively to the MyMiniFactory community, where they can be downloaded for free. MyMiniFactory users simply need to purchase the electronic components from 3DR and they can build their own IRIS+ drone. This is the first time that 3DR has released a version of one of their drones to the 3D printing community, and they encourage users to add to and embellish components of the IRIS+ in order to modify and customize the drone to suit their individual needs.

The 3D printable version of the IRIS+

MyMiniFactory is calling the drone a “Guaranteed 3D Printable” thanks to a week of printing and assembling by MyMiniFactory designer Kirby Downey. Not only has Downey documented his build, including the 3D printing, assembly and testing process, but he has also created a set of optimized 3D printable parts that are 50% lighter than the standard parts, but require 80% less support material. In addition to the assembly instructions, MyMiniFactory has also included a full list of optimal printer settings.

The 3D printable parts for the IRIS+ drone.

MyMiniFactory’s version of the IRIS+ was 3D printed using standard PLA material with a 10% infill. The total 3D print time will vary from printer to printer, but the average time will be about seven hours. In addition to Downey’s MyMiniFactory build instructions, 3DR has also created a page with their own build and assembly instructions that includes instructions to wire and program the electronics and a full troubleshooting guide.

In addition to the existing components, there are also several 3D printable accessories and add-on items that can enhance the IRIS+ drone uses. The many customized accessories include a set of extended landing gear legs, a mounting bracket with a DYS three axis gimbal and mount for a first person view camera and transmitter. You can find the full collection of the 3D printable accessories here.

Here is a video assembly guide from 3DRobotics:

One of the reasons that 3DR is releasing the IRIS+ parts for free is that they are eager to see what the MyMiniFactory community will develop for the drone. The open source community, especially the 3D printing side of it, can be incredibly creative in the many ways that they modify or in some cases completely alter and improve 3D designs. You can download and 3D print your own IRIS+ and find the full assembly instructions for MyMiniFactory here. And you can purchase the IRIS+ electrical components, as well as find full assembly and operating instructions on the 3DR website here. And you can purchase IRIS+ accessories and add-ons directly from 3DR here. Are you planning to download the files? Discuss in the 3D Printable IRIS+ forum over at 3DPB.com.