Lulzbot says, "The LulzBot AO-101 is one of the few desktop 3D printers on the market that can print with ABS and PLA plastics. With some simple adjustments, you can print with a wide array of experimental materials like wood filament, nylon, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and glow-in-the-dark materials. "
I am sure they will have to verify the type of materials first. So, I don't think this will be printing stainless steel from spools any time soon.
I am sure it is by weight. Typically, plastic spools go for around $18-35/kg. Every company seems to shy away from guaranteeing length. But, if you know the volume of the part you want to build, it is almost a 1:1 transfer of material.
The price of the device that is given in the articles seems very reasonable for the serious at-home inventor or small shop. Any idea what the raw material costs and/or if you are required to use material specifically made for that printer? Just wondering if the business model is the same as for desktop printer where the hardware is reasonable (or cheap) but they get you on the supplies?
Patents that restrict progress and innovation are not high on my list to celebrate. Any software protection can be side-stepped, so good luck with enforcement. I am sure that "Physibles" will require some level of protection, someday. Right now, it's the wild-west in this area.
The use of such a code would imply someone selling 3D CAD designs with the specific intent for them to be printed, or a private company wanting to protect their designs from "outsiders". This would in no way stop someone from creating their own 3D model on their own. They would just have to work harder.
The patent seems to require that CAD files include an authorization code and that the 3D printer will not print unless it accepts the authorization code. There's no need for such a code on a personal printer. No code-->No infringement.
The patent seems to require that CAD files include an authorization code and that the 3D printer will not print unless it accepts the authorization code. There's no need for such a code on a personal printer. No code-->No infringement.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 5
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