3D Printing
XYZPrinting Debuts 3D Printer for Education
XYZPrinting, a manufacturer of 3D printers, has unveiled its first education-focused 3D printer, the da Vinci miniMaker.
The
da Vinci miniMaker is the first printer in the company's da Vinci 3D
printer product line that is designed to be simple to operate for use
in science, technology, engineering, art and math classrooms. With its
rounded corners and primary colors, the printer looks like a toy but
offers beginner-friendly 3D printing capabilities, according to
information from the company.
Key features of the da Vinci miniMaker include:
- An auto-calibration system that is designed to simplify the process of creating high-quality prints;
- A small, lightweight design that measures 5.9-inches in all three dimensions; and
- Support for XYZprinting's biodegradable, non-toxic PLA filament only.
The
da Vinci miniMaker also comes with access to XYZprinting's Educational
Ecosystem, which includes 3D printing-based curricula and corresponding
projects.
Components of the XYZprinting Educational Ecosystem include:
- XYZmaker 3D modeling software, providing beginners with a model library and tools to generate shapes and objects;
- XYZprinting STEAM online curriculum exchange program for educators; and
- XYZ 3D Gallery, which offers more than 4,500 free 3D printable models such as educational items, art designs, toys and games.
The
da Vinci miniMaker 3D printer is now available for pre-order in the
United States on Amazon.com for a retail price of $229. The printers
are expected to begin shipping in fall 2016.
Further information about the da Vinci miniMaker can be found on XYZPrinting's site.
About the Author
Leila Meyer is a technology writer based in British Columbia. She can be reached at [email protected].