14 DAY TRIAL // Most 3D printers launched so far can make things only out of plastic, while some can handle metal. There are others of course, but not many. So the Mark One probably really is the first desktop printer capable of printing composite materials.
As proof of that ability, the newcomer has been used to create objects out of carbon fiber, but also fiberglass, nylon and PLA.
Not all at once though. This isn't a multi-material printer like the full-color, multi-material Objet500 Connex3, and it can't make things in all colors either.
Still, carbon fiber can be really though, and is also pretty hard to manufacture, so the Mark One might be a godsend.
The Mark One was invented by Gregory Mark (hence the name), who owns Aeromotions. The desktop 3D printer was first showcased at SolidWorks World 2014 in San Diego, California.
“We took the idea of 3D printing, that process of laying things down strand by strand, and we used it as a manufacturing process to make composite parts,” Mark told Popular Mechanics. “We say it’s like regular 3D printers do the form. We do form and function.”
In addition to the ability to make objects out of carbon fiber, the Mark One has some other perks, like a self-leveling printing bed (clicks into position before each print).
As for looks, the newcomer actually isn't all that large, as the enclosed photo will clearly show. It doesn't even tower over normal laptops.
Which is good because regardless of the potential industrial applications, this is supposed to be a consumer-oriented product, although the price of $5,000 / €3,659 - €5,000 is not exactly affordable, Then again, 3D printers seldom are.
A few years from now, they'll become more accessible in that regard, but for now, the market is still young and inventors are still learning the ropes.