Objet has proven the capabilities of its new ABS-like 3D printer material by printing a fully-functioning folding stool.
Printed in one pass on an Objet Connex 3D printer, the stool is capable of repeatedly handling a 100kg (15st 10lb) person sitting on it. The ABS-like material has similar high dimensional stability, thermal resistance, and toughness to ABS-grade engineering plastics.
Of course, the exercise was more a demonstration of capabilities than a serious attempt to produce furniture. Despite what many newspaper and TV reports are now saying, printing furniture in the home is a little way off yet. However, it does show the incredible capabilities of the Connex 3D printer.
Moving hinges, large volumes and tough materials are no problem for the Connex. It truly is an extremely versatile and powerful rapid prototyping tool. It enables product designers to thoroughly test form, fit and function quickly, so that design iterations are shortened and prototyping costs dramatically reduced.
"The Objet Connex500 has brought about a major change to our entire product design process. We can now produce high-quality models with excellent accuracy and very fine details in far less time."