More Images of Objects Printed by the Cube 3D Printer

As the days go by at CES more and more images of 3D objects printed using the Cube 3D printer are beginning to show up.

Here, for instance, are a number of images on Flickr.  Some are official images from 3D Systems and others appear to be images taken by attendees at CES.  Flickr's rules prevent me from linking to individual images.

Flickr Search for Cubify

I stumbled onto another site having some great images that are very useful.  Again, until I have sought permission to show an image here, I will simply link to their site.  The images of the shoes by posted by ZPrinting are especially nice.

The Verge's Cubify Gallery

The Verge images are especially useful.  As I look at these images, the following observations come to mind.

Image #1:  Chess Pieces

We can see that we are probably not going to be able to print perfectly smooth objects with the Cube.  But, what is really important about this image is to observe how the design of the Rook masks some of the uneveness as compared with the design of the Knight.  This means that we can actually design objects with the moderately low resolution in mind.   The brick patterns on the Rook work WITH the limitations and minimize them.

Images #2 & 3:  iPhone Skin

The material seems to be strong enough to allow for designs that minimize material use.

Image #4:  Cube 3D Printer

So far, this is the first image that allows us to get at least a glimpse of the LCD display screen.   We need more! 

Image #5:  iPod Holder(?)

Again, we can get some idea of the effective resolution of the printing stratification.  I also notice that from time to time a stray strand, like a spider's web is dragged along.  I have no idea if these are production models.  But, the strays seem minor and easy to deal with.  It's interesting that the holes in the side of the object don't appear to need support materials.  That's good news!

Image #6:  Frog Printing

This last photo needs a LOT more study than I can give it right now.  It demonstrates the support materials that most 3D printers, and certainly personal 3D printers, require.  Note the loose fit at the places where the actual body and the supports join.  And, look inside at the top of the frog to see how the supports are built up as the frog is printed.  We will pay a lot of attention to supports and removing supports.  But, I like what I see so far.

I'll keep you posted as I find new things and get permission to link directly to photos.