SLASH 3D Printer Sizzling on Kickstarter–at 400% of $50K Kickstarter Goal Already!

What is there to be excited about when it comes to the Uniz SLASH 3D printer? Well, nearly everything on the next generation level, as we’ve been reporting for a while now. Let’s factor in extraordinary speed (perhaps the fastest ever at the desktop) with superior resolution at nearly half what one would expect to pay for this resin-based SLA machine using a new LCD masking technology. Layers can be printed instantly due to the LCD light projector, and users can go big with their models.

If those few tasty morsels don’t get your attention, check out the astounding success on Kickstarter so far for Uniz. They have received over 400% in funding since launching the SLASH, already projected by many to be a true game changer. Their original modest hope was to reach $50K by April 28, but it would seem they can start making some major plans at this point for manufacturing, with certain success in the bag.

The SLASH very well may be a printer that changes users’ minds forever, allowing them to set aside the slower, less efficient methods of fabrication. Better than FDM and better than most SLA in terms of speed, performance, and price, this particular resin-based innovation is able to work faster than any other desktop because of the LCD contact exposure method allowing liquid cooling to happen as close to the interface as possible. High temperatures are dealt with expediently as large amounts of heat are ‘extracted,’ allowing for desired speed and printing of much larger objects.

“Before SLASH, speeds of 1,000 cc/hr were only achievable with large industrial machines that cost over $100,000–now it can be available in your home,” states the Uniz team on Kickstarter.

 

“With a WQXGA (2560 x 1600, 339 ppi, 75 µm x-y axis) ultra-high resolution IPS LCD screen and ball-bearing screw (10 µm z axis), SLASH is capable of delivering industrial grade accuracy and details. For your reference, a WQXGA DMD chip (used for DLP projectors) alone would cost you over $3,500,” states the Uniz team on Kickstarter. “A DLP 3D printer system with this kind of chip, adding image correction optics and other components, is definitely going to be very expensive. On the other hand, with LCD contact exposure technology, SLASH can deliver equivalent results with much faster speed, only at a fraction of the cost.”

Not leaving any stone unturned regarding quality, the Uniz team also made sure that the construction and mechanics of the SLASH are designed for many years of use, featuring a vat floor made from a polymer film that will last, depending, up to 10 to 100 times longer than others—and will also promise better performance and better success rate with prints overall. With a focus on simplicity, the goal from Uniz is for all levels of users to be able to enjoy the SLASH, from beginner to pro.

User-friendliness is key, as well. Offering streamlined, intuitive operations, one button on the front is both the main indicator light as well as a capacitive-sensing print control button. The SLASH is guaranteed to be safe, easy to maintain, and when it comes to resin cartridges, they are very easy to remove and replace. The software is easy to use, allowing for efficient importing and printing—along with a cloud-based online platform that makes sharing a piece of cake. You can also connect wirelessly to either your phone or tablet.

When it comes to backing this campaign, keep one thing in mind—you may need to be fast! Although the $999 early bird specials are sold out, you can still back the campaign for $1199 (shipping costs separate), and look forward to shipping in December. The prices ascend from there as deals sell out, including a $10K beta package that offers the chance to evaluate the printer and offer feedback, along with the hardware and lots of other supplies. Each of the levels of backing will include a 500ml bottle of resin materials.

The excitement of such quick success on Kickstarter is contagious. Are you thinking about backing this campaign too? Find out more here, and check out the video below to get more details on the SLASH.