One of the recent developments in 3D printing technology has been pens that allow users to literally ‘draw’ three-dimensional objects in real time. While undeniably impressive, particularly thanks to its speed, after you’ve used your 3D pen to show off in the office it may quickly feel like a bit of a one-trick pony – akin to a high-tech glue gun – and end up gathering dust in your desk drawer.
But hot on the heels of the first 3D printing pens comes the 3D Simo, which also boasts foam cutting, wood burning and soldering capabilities – ideal for creating simple, product prototypes in a short time, with the company’s videos showing examples such as moving aeroplane or truck models.
Much like other 3D pens on the market, Simo works by extruding heated plastic filament, most commonly ABS, that cools almost instantly into a solid, stable structure. However, it differs from other devices as it heats up to an impressive 490°C and its functionality can be altered easily with interchangeable ‘pen tip’ attachments. Just pop on the cutting extension piece and adjust the setting to cut polystyrene, foam, balsa, rubber-like materials or thin Plexiglas.
It also features an LED screen and simple function buttons so that users can alter the temperature and speed to employ a variety of filaments, not just ABS.
Priced at just over £70 from 3dsimo.com, it is no more costly than other printing pens despite its increased functionality.
While it may never become an essential piece of engineering equipment, it can quickly bring your clever design ideas to life, or repair plastic parts, such as unfinished 3D prints, and would certainly win the honour of ultimate tinkerer’s tool.
The company is using crowdfunding site Kickstarter to further develop its design, the 3D Simo mini, which is smaller, and paired with a mobile app. The free app connects to the pen via Bluetooth and can be used to control the temperature, speed and different material profiles.
It will also provide instructional videos, templates to print and regular software updates.
As PE went to press the company had already reached more than half of its $70,000 fundraising target for the initiative.
