Concepts 3D Systems Inc., a leader in resin 3D printing technology, has launched the Athena II Smart mSLA Resin 3D Printer. Building on the success of its predecessor, which secured full Kickstarter funding in under 30 minutes, the Athena II integrates extensive user feedback and improvements from its development and testing phases. This latest model features a 16K LCD display with an impressive 14×19-micron resolution, offering a print volume of 212mm by 118mm by 235mm. Interested buyers are encouraged to contact Concepts 3D Systems Inc. directly for pricing information.
Designed for applications requiring high accuracy, such as dental prosthetics, jewelry design, engineering prototypes, and intricate artistic models, the Athena II sets a new benchmark in resin 3D printing. The printer employs a Smart Dynamic Control System that utilizes advanced sensors to continuously monitor and adjust parameters like lift speed and exposure times in real-time. This ensures optimal print quality and minimizes the risk of failures, enhancing overall reliability. Additionally, the Athena II achieves layer times of under five seconds and print speeds between 40 and 100 millimeters per hour, maintaining high quality without compromising efficiency.
User safety remains a priority with the integration of the Aegis Air Filter System, which includes dual VOC sensors to manage air quality effectively. This system detects and filters harmful volatile organic compounds emitted during the printing process, alerts users when it is safe to open the chamber, and notifies them when filters require replacement. The printer is also equipped with a large exhaust port, allowing for external venting and providing flexibility in various workspace setups.
Connectivity features are robust, leveraging Linux, Raspberry Pi, and open-source software to deliver a seamless user experience. The Athena II operates on NanoDLP Linux OS and Klipper firmware, ensuring precise machine control and reliable performance. A 5-inch high-resolution IPS touchscreen facilitates on-printer slicing, resin profile editing, and calibration without the need for external computers. Additionally, the WebUI with live analytics offers remote control, live camera feeds, and detailed monitoring accessible via any browser. Multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth, accommodate diverse setup requirements.
Unveiled at Formnext 2024, the Athena II received positive feedback from industry experts for its significant advancements in resolution, speed, and safety features. Pre-orders are scheduled to begin in January 2025, with the first units expected to ship by late March or April of the same year. Detailed specifications and information about the printer’s configurations can be found on the Concepts 3D Systems website. The company advises potential customers to contact them directly for current pricing details.
| Category | Attribute | Details |
| Technology & Core Components | Technology | mSLA (LCD + UVLED) |
| Light Source | Ultra High Power COB LED with Fresnel for highly collimated light (over 90% uniformity) | |
| Touchscreen | Large 5″ high-resolution IPS touchscreen with capacitive touch | |
| Electronics | Custom Motherboard with Pi Hardware (opensource), expandable, upgradable, ready for future add-ons | |
| Sensors | Resin Temperature, Chamber Temperature, UVLED Temperature, Humidity, Dual VOC, Z-axis Force, Resin Level | |
| Performance & Print Specifications | Print Speed | Sub-5-second layer times (40-100mm/h) |
| Dimensional Tolerance | Typical +/-0.2% feature accuracy (C5 Ballscrew and Dual 15mm Linear Rails) | |
| XY Resolution | 14×19μm pixels | |
| Layer Thickness | 10-200μm layer thickness | |
| Materials | Open Resin System (compatible with 405nm light sources) | |
| Power & Hardware Specifications | Power Requirements | 100-240V~ (50/60Hz) (24V 14.6A – 350W Max) |
| Resin Vat | 60W integrated heater with temperature monitoring, nFEP/PFA vat film | |
| On-Board Storage | 8GB system storage, expandable M.2 SSD port (expandable from 32-512GB) | |
| System Memory | 4GB memory | |
| Build Volume & Dimensions | Build Volume | 211.68 x 118.37 x 235mm (XYZ) |
| Screen | 9.6” 16K LCD display | |
| Printer Dimensions | 35 x 32 x 53 cm (L x W x H) | |
| Weight | 19 kg | |
| Software & Connectivity | Software | Custom NanoDLP Linux OS, Custom Klipper Firmware, Built-in NanoSupport Slicer |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB |
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Featured images shows the Athena II Smart mSLA Resin 3D Printer. Photo via Concepts 3D Systems.
