Dutch 3D printing specialist MX3D has just released a new version of their 3D printed bike. While such a concept is not entirely new in any case, their latest innovation offers an aluminum frame fabricated via wire arc additive manufacturing, with customized features. Working from its predecessor’s design, this new lightweight bicycle shows even more progress in comparison to the stainless steel Arc Bike 1.
“Arc Bike II shows the progress of the technology development and how fast one can go from idea to end product,” states the MX3D team in their latest press release.
MX3D has not only evolved impressively in the basic design, but the opportunity for customization should be enticing to enthusiasts looking for a bicyclist-specific ride—demonstrating one of the greatest benefits of 3D printing, as items can be created not only on demand but also completely modified to the requirements of the user (this also translates to other areas like medicine where individuals receive the benefits of patient-specific treatment).
The Arc Bike II is created with a ‘generative design software’ adapted for the bicyclist’s form. The frame can be 3D printed within a mere 24 hours, and after that, smart software (currently in the beta version of MX3D software technology) allows for desired customizations and smooth riding.
The Arc Bike II is for sale in limited edition (contact projects@mx3d.com), while the beta software is now available for customers pre-ordering, with the MX3D team expecting it to also assist their industrial and creative clients in creating large-scale metal projects. They will present the software from November 19-22 at Formnext in Frankfurt.
MX3D is currently working with a range of artists, architects, and other industrial clients interested in integrating the Robotic Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) into their existing creative and business workflow. They are also currently producing large-scale prototypes in their workshop. MX3D has received numerous prizes, from the 2018 STARTS Prize from the European Commission for the best Arts and Technology project for their Bridge Project, to the Dutch Design Award, 3D Printing Challenge Award, and selection in the Top 100 Most Innovative Companies by the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.
“It took some time to master aluminum printing, which is more challenging than other metals, but the outcome was a convincing strong and lightweight bike,” says Thomas Van Glabeke, project leader. “After the initial technical challenges were solved, it was amazing to see the turnover speed from idea to final product. It’s exciting, I can’t wait to see a whole family of these bikes rolling off the MX3D production line!”
Bicycling is one of the most popular outdoor activities—and extremely effective forms of cardio exercise—around the world, so it is no surprise that 3D printing enthusiasts want to try their hand at creating them in numerous forms, from a variety of frame components to carbon fiber frames to other stainless steel frames, lightweight designs, and more.
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