3D Printing On the Go: Portable 3D Printer PopFab Fits in a Suitcase

PopFab Portable 3D Printer

Every consumer electronic technology starts out large and eventually becomes portable. Computers were once mainframes the size of a large room and now can fit in the palm of your hand. The same trend is being followed for 3D printers.

Two MIT students have designed PopFab: a 3D printer that fits in a suitcase and can be a carry-on piece of luggage.

Described as a multi-tool, perhaps the Swiss Army knife of 3D printers, the video below shows the two students setting up PopFab bit by bit, and is part of a series that will show off the mobile 3D printer’s capabilities.

In just a few moments, the students assembled the printer through attaching the printing head to a fold-out arm. Next, they placed the printing material and connected a computer which is used to relay the design to the machine.

In the video, the printer is used to create a small, three dimensional fish. However, the portable design could potentially be used to perform different functions — change the toolhead, switch the service. For example, the team believe it could also be used to cut vinyl, perform milling or draw programmed designs.

 

Via SmartPlanet.

2 Responses to 3D Printing On the Go: Portable 3D Printer PopFab Fits in a Suitcase

  1. Sibele says:

    Is it possible to get in touch with the responsible for this printer?

  2. [...] 3D Printing On the Go: Portable 3D Printer PopFab Fits in a Suitcase [...]

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