Aug 4, 2015 | By Simon
As designers, engineers and Makers continue to expand into multiple methods of digital fabrication for creating their prototypes and projects, the need for an affordable all-in-one fabrication device becomes more apparent. While we’ve seen a number of all-in-one systems in the past, many have been met with certain capability restrictions or costs that left much to be desired.
Now, a new multi-tool offering from Poland’s TYTAN 3D is aiming to be the most efficient and reliable all-in-one digital fabrication device yet - the GAIA Multitool Next Generation 3D Printer.
Designed as a multifunctional device that combines the capabilities of a 3D printer, CNC router, laser engraver, and other digital fabrication tools, the GAIA Multitool is also impressively able to 3D print models from clay, porcelain and many other 100% natural materials that users can create and mix themselves.
Available in three versions including the Standard (30 x 40 cm), the MAXX (45 x 105 cm) and the MINI (20 x 20 cm), TYTAN 3D founders Janusz Wojcik and Pawel Rokita essentially want users to be able to create whatever they can seemingly think of without ever having to get up from their desk.
“GAIA Multitool gives you complete freedom to create items using almost every possible manufacturing technique,” explain Wojcik and Rokita.
“It uses 10 interchangeable tool heads, which turn the machine into several different devices. GAIA Multitool uses delta kinematics and is made from high quality components used in professional industrial machines. It also uses 32-bit electronics based on Smoothieware as well as drivers dedicated for CNC milling machines.”
Because of the amount of tool heads and expandible capabilities, the GAIA Multitool is among one of the few 3D printers in the world (available to purchase) that allows users to create 3D printed models using natural earth materials that have been created by the user - such as a number of clay-based materials and even chocolate.
In total, the machine uses two different extruders - one that features a one liter tank and the other with a 10 liter tank - which allows users to print objects that are over 1 meter high.
In an email to 3Ders, Wojcik emphasized that in addition to the large variety of capabilities, the printer was also made with utmost care and consideration towards the quality of the materials and parts.
“The most important feature of our device is the quality of used components,” he said.
“Even though GAIA Multitool looks like a nice delta 3D printer, it has components typical for professional CNC machines, like IGUS joints, 32 bit electronics based on Smoothieware, HIWIN linear guides, as well as ceramic, heated table. Additionally, we also provide ArtCam software”
As if the printer couldn’t be any more impressive, Wojcik and Rokita are currently seeking funding for it through a Kickstarter campaign with the option for early bird backers to own their very own GAIA Multitool MINI for just $1500. While it’s not as large as the other models, the MINI still contains the same 10 tool heads for creating a variety of objects using a number of digital fabrication techniques directly on your desktop.
In total, all sizes of the GAIA Multitool includes the following tool heads:
- a 3D printing head for ceramics (1 liter of material) and other masses composed by user
- a 3D printing head for ceramics and other masses composed by user, with a Bowden extruder (external tank with 10 liters of material)
- a 3D printing head for ceramics and other masses composed by user, with a cartridge (300 ml) built into the head itself, as opposed to via an external tank
- a 3D printing head for FDM with a 3 mm nozzle
- a 3D printing head for FDM with 1.75 mm nozzle
- a diamond stylus for etching inscriptions on metal and glass
- a knife to cut out foil/adhesive letters or other templates
- a CNC milling machine for engraving inscriptions, drawings, carvings, etc. (CNC milling device not included with device)
- a head equipped with a special marker for drawing (e.g. PCB tracks)
- a laser engraver.
“We believe in the project's unique features and that it has the ability to broaden the area of three dimensional manufacturing,” add Wojcik and Rokita.
“We want to give you the freedom to create wonderful things in every conceivable way using just one device. We need your help in order to accomplish the goal of creating the best possible product.”
To find out more about which device might be best for your needs and to learn more about the different reward tiers for supporting the campaign, be sure to head over to the GAIA Multitool Kickstarter page.
Posted in 3D Printers
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