14 DAY TRIAL // There are many consumer 3D printers out there now, but most of them are only useful if you know what you are doing with them. Also, they are mildly dangerous because of how hot certain parts grow.
The fumes and smells given off by most techniques are not exactly pleasant or healthy either.
This all boils down to an industry that can't reach to children in any direct ways. Even indirect ones, like 3D printing an action figure, don't have much of a chance to promote additive manufacturing as something kids should indulge in.
This is fine, according to most, but some disagree. Japan’s Bonsai Lab Inc. is one of those who disagree.
Its solution? Why, create a toy 3D printer that can let kids print other toys. Or add-on-to toys, or whatever else they can think of.
The BS Toy can extrude LT80 filament at 80°C (176°F). It's still hot, but not enough to leave burns if touched briefly.
The printer is also very, very small, measuring 200 x 200 x 200 mm / 8 x 8 x 8 inches (roughly). That means the build envelope is of 130 x 125 x 100 mm / 5.11 x 4.92 x 3.93 inches. The weight of the printer is 2 kg by the way (4.40 pounds).
Finally, the filaments used by the printer are composed of raw materials approved by the US FDA (US Food and Drug Administration).
Sadly, no price is known as of yet for the BS Toy 3D Printer, but sales should start this year.