iFab

Year

2009

The idea

Three-dimensional printing was to become more individualised and personalised and made easier.

The objective

Exchangeable print heads enable iFab to 3D-print layer by layer, using different materials.

Technical data

• Configuration: tripod
• Object size: height max. 8 cm, diameter 15 cm
• Actuators: bipolar stepper motors with threaded spindle
• Housing: acrylic
• Print head: modularly exchangeable, syringe, extruder
• Drive stages: 4-axis stepper motors

Operating principle

Rapid prototyping was made even more efficient by means of learning in the iFab project. For this purpose, the tripod structure was simplified. By using different print heads, the range of materials that can be printed with iFab extends from chocolate and silicone to thermoplastics.

Structure

Rather than using a conventional 3-axis system, the material to be deposited for 3D printing is moved by the tripod consisting of three identical, mechanically linked and electrically driven linear units.

Simplification

The intelligent technology platform iFab represents a milestone in individualised 3D printing – for home use, for personalised production or for basic and advanced training in the fields of mechatronics, mechanical engineering, architecture and design.

Material

iFab