3D Systems unveiled the second generation of its popular home 3D printer, the Cube, with faster printability, additional print modes and greater materials selection, including recyclable ABS plastic and compostable PLA and more colors including glow-in-the dark blue and green. The Cube meets all IEC 60950 Printer Safety Requirements making it the only consumer 3D printer that is safe for at-home use by adults and children alike. The new Cube will be on display at CES, January 8-11, 2013, in the Las Vegas Convention Center in the Main Hall, booth 15447 and the CES MommyTech Zone, booth 71003 in the Venetian.
Awarded "easiest to use" and "most reliable" by Make Magazine, 3D Systems has made its new Cube even easier to own and simpler to use by offering a Print Pack valued at, $1,500, for just $1,399. This comprehensive value pack includes the Cube 3D printer, 4 cartridges, 25 free prints and Cubify(R) Invent design software, the only 3D design tool optimized for 3D printing. Cubify.com provides more easy printing options for new users with 3D apps that generate free print files and an entire 3D printing marketplace of items to choose from.
Product Features:
Print Experience – Delivers up to 1.5X faster print speed and 2X better accuracy for printed parts up to 5.5" cubed. Full tech specs are available here.
Greater Material and Print Mode Choices – Cube now prints in two materials, compostable PLA and recyclable ABS plastics. Both materials are available in 16 different color cartridges including new glow-in-the dark green and blue and metallic silver colors. Cube offers a choice of print mode fill density: lite, medium and solid in both PLA and ABS plastics with optional easy, breakaway supports for the most complex prints.
Smart Cartridge Systems – Moisture-lock cartridge ensures extended shelf life and total material usage, improving print quality and sustainability.The printer detects material type automatically based on the cartridge, eliminating the need to change print settings. The cartridges are easy to load and store while preserving the life and quality of the materials.
Safest for the Home – Cube meets all IEC 60950 Printer Safety Requirements, making it the only consumer 3D printer that is safe for home use by children.
Easier to Use Sleeker Design – Building on the success of the original, the second generation Cube has the same intuitive, touchscreen interface, compact sleek design, plug-and-print simplicity, WiFi connectivity and both MAC and PC compatibility.
Sustainability – Users can now send back their empty cartridges to designated 3D Systems locations for reuse in exchange for a discount on new cartridges and return their used ABS and PLA prints for responsible recycling or composting by the company. All Cubes are shipped locally from USA and EU distribution centers reducing freight. The new Cube comes with a proprietary, heatless print pad that conserves power compared to other 3D printers. 3D Systems is committed to making consumer 3D printing affordable, safe and sustainable.
3D Printing Services – Registering your Cube for free on Cubify.com allows for easy hardware and software updates and immediate access to Cubify 3DCloud printing service, whether users store designs on Cubify or use 3DCloud printing for broader material choices and performance properties.. Cube Experts hotline and email support is available every day from 3:00am to 8:00pm EST, providing 16 hours of service each day.
"With the next generation Cube, we are giving consumers the best ever at-home 3D printing experience with more options for more fun," said Cathy Lewis, CMO 3D Systems. "Our growing selection of 3D apps, designs and lifestyle accessories on Cubify.com makes 3D printing accessible to everyone, and our sustainability and safety enhancements make 3D printing responsible and enjoyable for the entire family."
The company is now accepting pre-orders and plans to commence commercial shipments of the next-generation Cube printer on January 21, 2013.