Back in early 2013, the world’s first 3D printing pen was introduced by toy company WobbleWorks, quickly drawing fans across the globe, who funded the project on Kickstarter to the tune of $2.3m (£1.5m).
The 3Doodler allows users to draw in the air and see their creations realised physically as plastic 3D structures.
The pen, which measures 4 x 2 inches is similar therefore to a handheld 3D printer, using either ABS or PLA plastic filament as its “ink” in the nozzle, which is heated and then rapidly cools.
The pen doesn’t require any software, just a power source. WobbleWorks has to date sold 130,000 units of the first generation model.
Now the 3Doodler 2.0 has arrived, debuted at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The new model of 3Doodler works in the same way to the original but is 75% smaller than the first generation model and half the weight.
New features include a a double-click control allowing for continuous drawing flow and a new nozzle design with improved air flow.
3Doodle 2.0 also introduces a number of accessories including: “jet packs”, a portable power pack, pedal, stand and an “educational bundle” for school use.
The 2.0 pen’s Kickstarter campaign has already raised $262,000 (£170,000) in its first 24 hours, smashing the goal of $30,000. WobbleWorks hope to ship the first pens by April 2015.
The first-generation pen was used to draw architecture models, braille text and even dresses. Think of it as rendering shapes in the air with sparklers on Bonfire Night come to life. Brilliant.
Check out some examples of its creations below.
