Seattle-based Functionalize is a company specializing in 3D printing materials production, including the highly conductive F-Electric filament. To better show off the capabilities of this product, Functionalize released the Flashlight LetterKit, an accessible DIY kit to 3D print fully functional flashlights on a single-head 3D printer.
The new Flashlight LetterKit includes: a modifiable keychain flashlight design made for single head printers, an already printed and fully assembled 3D flashlight, enough Functionalize F-Electric conductive and regular filament to print five flashlights, and an extra battery and LED light to fully assemble a new flashlight. The kit comes in convenient letter-like packaging and with translucent PLA in “jewel-themed” color options, as complementary non-conductive filament.
“We saw that many people purchasing Functionalize F-Electric filament started with the flashlight and were excited when they finished their first functional part. It reminded me of how I felt when I took my first flashlight off the print bed, snapped it together, and it lit up. With an entry level kit that maximizes project success, we want to share that feeling with everyone,” said Michael Toutonghi, founder and chief executive officer of Functionalize.
The Flashlight LetterKit provides a fun project for users to 3D print a fully functional electronic part. Also, priced at $19,95, it provides an inexpensive and easy way to play with and learn about the possibilities of conductive 3D printing filament.
More and more, both 3D printer and filament manufacturers (see colorFabb’s RC car for the XTCF or Zortrax’s robotic arm) are starting to realize that one way to get more people involved with their products is to offer them functional things they can make; at very little extra cost, a 3D printer producer can supply STL files and instructions to create actual functioning objects, from robots to drones, quickly and easily.
“3D Printing is moving from its largely novelty roots, particularly in the home, to being a major tool for those building projects in the home or small business,” explained analyst Rob Enderle of the Enderle Group, as reported by Functionalize . “A critical part of this evolution is the ability to print ever more complex objects. The LetterKit is a clear example of this, showcasing and teaching 3D printer users that they can now take the next step. I expect it will be a harbinger for even more amazing things to come.” For example “anything stores”, where anything can be made on demand.
I got to see a demo from these guys a few months back. It’s really cool stuff.