Anyone looking for a portable compact suitcase-sized 3D printer will find the PopFab of interest. This innovative device has been created by MIT students Ilan Moyer of MIT’s CADLAB and Nadya Peek of the school’s Center for Bits and Atoms.
The PopFab not only contains a 3D printer but also a fully functional CNC milling machine, vinyl cutter, and a programmable drawing tool, all contained in a compact aluminum briefcase. This makes it an incredibly versatile tool for makers, designers, and engineers who need a portable solution for various fabrication tasks. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action.
Features and Capabilities
The video below only shows the 3D printer section of the PopFab in action, but additional videos are being created that will demonstrate the PopFab’s other features and will hopefully be made available to view very soon. Its creators explain:
“PopFab is a multi-tool for the 21st century. At its heart is a computer-controlled motion platform and a means of attaching various toolheads. These enable PopFab to make objects from a digital plan in a variety of ways: current capabilities include 3D printing (as you are about to see), milling, vinyl cutting, and drawing — with more on the way. PopFab has traveled the world as a carry-on item of luggage to Saudi Arabia and Germany, and within the USA to Aspen in Colorado. We hope that this is only the beginning.”
The PopFab’s modular design allows users to switch between different toolheads easily, making it a highly adaptable piece of equipment. For instance, the CNC milling machine can be used for precision cutting and shaping of materials like wood, plastic, and metal. The vinyl cutter is perfect for creating custom decals and stickers, while the programmable drawing tool can be used for intricate designs and artwork.
Applications and Future Potential
The PopFab’s portability and versatility open up a wide range of applications. For example, it can be used in educational settings to teach students about digital fabrication and engineering principles. Its compact size makes it ideal for workshops and maker spaces where space is limited. Additionally, professionals in fields such as architecture, product design, and engineering can benefit from having a portable fabrication tool that can be easily transported to different locations.
One of the most exciting aspects of the PopFab is its potential for future development. The creators have hinted at the possibility of adding more toolheads, which could further expand its capabilities. Imagine a future where the PopFab includes a laser cutter, embroidery machine, or even a small-scale injection molding system. The possibilities are endless, and the modular nature of the PopFab means that it can evolve to meet the changing needs of its users.
Moreover, the PopFab’s ability to travel as a carry-on item of luggage makes it a game-changer for international collaborations and remote work. Designers and engineers can take their fabrication tools with them wherever they go, enabling them to work on projects and prototypes without being tied to a specific location.
The PopFab represents a significant advancement in the field of digital fabrication. Its combination of portability, versatility, and modularity makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of users. As the creators continue to develop and refine the PopFab, it will be exciting to see how this innovative device shapes the future of making and fabrication.
Source: Verge : Core77 : PopFab
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