AutoDesk 3D Printer - 18 May 2014

The Autodesk branded 3D printer will utilise Stereolithic Technology incorporating a laser to harden liquid plastic to create it's 3D Models.

An ultraviolet light traces a cross-section of the desired design over a thin exposed layer of plastic resin, turning it solid, before the unused material is disposed of. This process is repeated layer-by-layer until the object is complete. This differs from the extrusion technique most commonly used by existing budget printers, which involves building an object by squeezing melted plastic out of a tiny nozzle.

The Stereolithographic process is more complicated to achieve, but if done right can deliver smoother, more complex & more detailed objects.

Autodesk will be allowing other manufacturers to make their own versions of the Autodesk 3D printer or power their own models off its software at no cost ultimately to encourage adoption of the technology and rather than just being able to load in proprietary materials, you can load in any material you want & formulate your own polymers and experiment with those.

Autodesk's desire is to drive the adoption of its new Spark platform software, a product they liken to being an "operating system for 3D-printing"

Spark is an open 3D printing platform that will make it easier for hardware manufacturers, software developers, materials scientists, product designers, and more to participate in and benefit from this technology. Spark connects digital information to 3D printers in a new and streamlined way, making it easier to visualize prints and optimize them without trial and error, while also broadening the range of materials that can be used for printing. As the Spark platform is open, everyone can use its building blocks to further push the limits of 3D printing and drive fresh innovation.

we are predicting that the new 3D Printer will be entering the UK market at a price under £4.5K, this remains to be seen however as does a firm launch date.