Today, everything for the new 3D printer is finalized and we were able to get a .3mm nozzle and not a .5mm nozzle. This will help with the structure of the frame if we do decided to 3D print the frame of a prototype. After meeting with Romeo form the Dallas Makerspace aerospace division, we have chosen to use a pre-fabricated frame as a way of reducing failure rates in the prototyping phase. The printer will be delivered and assembled by the end of January, and parts will being to be tested after calibration is finished.
This is the printer we purchased and will be using for the company. Although it is privately owned by Byron Hameline, chief engineer of the MAD Tech Project, he will be more than willing to lone the company time to print on it.
A note from Byron Hameline:
The RepRapPro Mono Mendel was designed by the open source project that has thrived in the 3D printing industry and has designed many models over the years. The main reason I chose this company is because of a few reasons. First, it is an open source company which mean that there is a possibility for a large community base. Secondly, the cost of the printers that RepRapPro design are very cost efficient making them easy to purchase without a large budget cushion. The important thing to note is that even with the low cost design, the printer does not lose any accuracy. The third reason is because of the open design of the printer, it leaves me the ability to modify the design or add to the structure to aid in the printing process. Lastly, this model printer has an upgrade package which adds an additional two extruders, making the printer a Tricolour Mendel, a great way to print many parts in different colors and materials, a must when designing complex frames. I believe this was the best choice of 3D printer for me and for the use of the company.
