Photocopiers, and the xerography behind them, have forever changed the way we duplicate texts and documents. Now, when we move to the world of 3D printing, the only way to create the equivalent of a photocopier would be to integrate a 3D scanner into the printer. That is how we came across the Blacksmith Genesis, a 3D printer equipped with a laser scanner that digitizes and prints all kinds of objects.
The Two Obstacles of 3D Printing
Entering the world of 3D printing can become a frustrating goal for two reasons. The first is none other than price. While there are 'economical' alternatives, the average is still too high for most pockets. The second reason is the creation of the 3D model to print. Companies like Autodesk are doing everything possible to simplify the use of software, and there are also portals like Thingiverse with thousands of ready-to-print open source models. However, most people expect 3D printing to be as simple and dynamic as conventional printing. Personally, I have to reproduce several parts for which I can no longer find spare parts, and the simple idea of creating a digital version of them is disturbing to me. At this point we ask: 'Where is the magic of the 3D scanner?' We have seen them work before, and they are truly excellent devices that deserve a privileged place on our desks.
Blacksmith Genesis: A 3D Photocopier
To find the answer we must travel to Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. There, the development of the Blacksmith Genesis began, a 3D printer with an integrated 3D laser scanner. According to the original presentation video, the Blacksmith Genesis works like we imagine many 3D printers in the future: you place the piece on the tray, the 3D scanner automatically reproduces it on the software, and the user orders its printing. If necessary, the software allows various adjustments, including the scale of the piece, something especially interesting if the plan is to create toys or ornaments. It has a two-inch LCD screen, WiFi connectivity, an SD card slot (meaning the computer is optional), and a camera that sends its video signal to mobile devices, to monitor the status of the print. The print volume amounts to 6,648 cubic centimeters, and it weighs six kilograms, making it relatively easy to transport.
Crowdfunding and Pre-orders
The Blacksmith Genesis had a successful run on Indiegogo, collecting more than $80,000, and in recent days its official pre-sale process has opened. The price of the Blacksmith Genesis is $2,200, while shipping costs are $150 to (almost) any country in the world.
