RepRap-style 3D printer manufacturers are following a trend that accompanies mainstream interest in desktop 3D printing. As they attempt to garner greater widespread appeal, outside of the immediate Maker community, a number of 3D printer brands are releasing redesigned machines that move away from that ‘built-in-a-garage-for-use-in-a-garage’ look to something that average consumers may be interested in. MakerBot jumped the Maker ship a long time ago, when they moved away from CNC’d plywood to PVC panelled machines. Since then, other well-established companies like Ultimaker, Type A Machines, and, even, Printrbot are realizing that a sleeker look may translate to greater appeal. The most recent brand to follow this trend is Tinkerine Studios (TSX-V: TTD), which has just launched its DittoPro 3D printer.
The DittoPro is an upgrade to the Ditto+ desktop 3D printer. The Pro model replaces the old CNC’d plywood panels and the special fabric composite print platform of the + with aluminium composite panelling and a glass bed that uses a quick release system for easy removal and a guided bed levelling procedure. Additionally, the DittoPro features a swappable nozzle and “smart auto temperature adjustment”. The print volume of the new version is about 225 x 165 x 205 mm (8.9 x 6.5 x 8.1 in), compared with the 21 x 18.5 x 23 cm (8.3 x 7.3 x 9 in) of the previous model. The layer resolution of the Pro has improved to 50-300 microns (0.05-0.3 mm), from the +’s 100-300 microns (0.1-0.3 mm) range. Like its predecessor, the Pro has a graphic display, control dial, and SD card reader for untethered printing.
Tinkerine Studios is in the process of being acquired by White Bear Resources, a natural resources company. And, though the company will continue to be managed by Tinkerine’s principals, with the addition of the director of White Bear, the acquisition coupled with the redesign of the Ditto could indicate a new direction for the company. Their previous printers were open source, but, if MakerBot does set the trend for the trajectory of 3D printer brands, we may wonder if the DittoPro will stay with the community or say “ditto” to MakerBot’s moves, in general. Either way, the Ditto redesign is a pretty little number that may catch the eye of the general public. If it’s caught your eye, you can purchase it here.
Source: WSJ
