MM1: Advancing 3D printing

Recently, 3D printing is more evident in today's technology savvy society than it has been even 2 years ago. Before, 3D printing technology provided a much more efficient method of manufacturing high quality products with precise details in a relatively small amount of time, but was restricted to being used in factories due to its extremely large size, and using only one material: plastic. Now, 3D printing has advanced to the point where today's society can buy their own 3D printers, and are capable of using different materials, such as metal, or even sugar, to create intricate and detailed objects other manufacturing methods cannot match.  Now, MakerMex, a 3D printing company based in Mexico, has created a prototype 3D printer, the MM1, with a capability that further advances 3D printing technology; the ability to transition between materials as required. The MM1 features a print area of 20x20x20cm, and measures 49x37.5x49cm. The MM1 is capable of printing in a variety of matrials such as ceramics, metals, rubber, and even Play-Doh. With this, an object can be made one part metal, one part rubber, and one part Play-Doh in just one print. The MM1 prints at 300mm/s and a layer resolution of 30 mircons. The printer can be further customized with a variety of add-ons such as Wi-Fi modules and heating beds. MM1 will cost around US $999, but production will not start until they reach a crowdfunding goal of $50, 000. Clearly, 3D technology is advancing in such a rapid pace that many products today, such as out smartphones, laptops, and even buildings, will be created with 3D printing technology in a few years. To see more about this printer, go to the following link: http://www.gizmag.com/makermex-modular-mm1-3d-printer/33781/