Columbus
Release status: unknown
| Description | Documentation of Columbus R&D
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Columbus is a 3D printing device that was born from the inspiring challenges of the Gaga Prize. The current stage of development is preliminary design. In this stage brainstorming sessions are combined with due diligence to narrow down goals and objectives. The main requirements are:
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Overview
Design Philosophy
Progressive Construction
It is assumed that those that assemble Columbus will be in one of two main categories: those that have an existing 3D printer (i.e. RepRap, MakerBot) and those that do not. While it will be difficult to achieve the $200 price range with an existing 3D printer, it will be nearly impossible to reach that goal without such a device. In an effort to increase the number of potential users Columbus is being designed with a "progressive construction" in mind. In this scheme the user will first assemble a RepStrap which contains many of the components of the full size Columbus (i.e. stepper motors, electronics, straight rods). This device will then print the remaining structural components. Finally, the initial device is dismantled and it's components are combined with the parts it printed to form the compete Columbus printer. It is hoped that is routine will not only save the first time user money, but will also familiarize the user with the components and construction ideas before the assemble the full unit.
