With quite the amazing Kickstarter launch today, a Taiwan-based company called FLUX Technology LLC has healthily eclipsed their $100,000 goal in under 24 hours, thanks to 224 backers (at our last count). With 39 days left, it will certainly be interesting to see just how high this Kickstarter project is able to go.
Why the excitement? Perhaps it’s the price, starting at just $499 in kit form, or maybe it’s the capabilities. The Delta-style machine is not only capable of 3D printing at exceptional levels, but also features 3D scanning and laser engraving capabilities with numerous other modules under development by the company to allow for additional capabilities in the future such as dual nozzle extrusion, and paste extrusion.
FLUX is not just a machine, but an entire ecosystem. Built on an open interface with available APIs, and featuring its own easy-to-use modeling software app called FLUX Studio, one can literally create a model on their smartphone, and within minutes have that model printing out via a Bluetooth connection. There is no need for PC or laptop connectivity, as the modeling, hardware control, and system configurations can all be done on most mobile devices.
Some of the general specifications for the FLUX all-in-one machine:
- Printer Size: 30.5 x 26.5 x 55 cm
- Printer Weight: 5.4kg
- Build Envelope: 17cm diameter x 18cm height
- Max Print Speed: 100mm/sec
- Layer Height: 0.01 – 0.3mm
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
- Scanner Wavelength: 650nm
- Scanner Point Accuracy: 2 – 3mm
- Scan Envelope: 14cm diameter x 8.5cm height
- Triangles Per Model: 60,000 – 100,000
The laser engraving module, which is included for an additional fee, is able to cut both paper and foil, and to engrave a variety of materials such as wood, leather, foam board, cardboard, and more.
Now that the company has surpassed their Kickstarter goal, they plan to launch the product sometime in June of next year with the fulfillment of Kickstarter rewards taking place the following month, July 2015. Depending on which package you would like, and how quickly you back this project, the printer will range in price from $499 for the basic kit without the laser engraver, to $1,999 for a fully loaded metal-framed machine.
It is interesting to note that another wildly successful company to emerge from Kickstarter, Structur3D Printing, which raised over $100,000 CAD for their Discov3ry paste extruder, has teamed with FLUX as a partner, to help them bring their extrusion modules to market ASAP.
Let us know if you are one of the early backers of this new machine. Discuss in the FLUX All-in-One 3D Printer forum thread on 3DPB.com. Check out the Kickstarter pitch video below:
