CORE One Deep Dive AT PRUSA!!

Summary

In this video, the team at Prusa Research showcases the new Core 1 3D printer, highlighting its unique features, ease of assembly, and scalability for future upgrades. The machine's design offers impressive functionality with magnetic camera modules, extra ports, and a focus on maintenance and accessibility. With over 1,000 employees dedicated to crafting these machines, viewers get an insider look into the production process. Excitement grows around the affordable price, improved manufacturing, and user-driven innovation, making it a significant step forward in 3D printing technology. The team is eager to see how the community will further enhance the platform.

Takeaways

• 😀 The printer's design is focused on ease of assembly and user comfort, making maintenance and upkeep much simpler over time.
• 😀 The assembly process is not a mass production line but a thoughtful, hands-on approach by skilled workers who put significant effort into each machine.
• 😀 The new printer kit is expected to ship soon, though the lead time might fluctuate based on demand, with potential delays depending on order volume.
• 😀 The design of the machine emphasizes accessibility and modularity, with components that can be easily removed or replaced for repairs and upgrades.
• 😀 Prusa has been scaling up its operations, hiring more staff and improving manufacturing to meet demand as their product line grows.
• 😀 There are additional features being developed, such as a camera module and various sensors, that will enhance the printer's functionality.
• 😀 The printer's enclosure is customizable, and there are creative ideas for repurposing the enclosures, like turning them into terrariums.
• 😀 Future upgrades and accessories are in the works, including improved filament storage solutions and potential partnerships for custom add-ons.
• 😀 The machine has built-in LEDs that light up the print area, providing a visually appealing display once the print is finished.
• 😀 The firmware for the printer is open-source, allowing for customization, and the community is encouraged to contribute new features, like a status LED progress bar for prints.
• 😀 The mobile app now includes push notifications, such as alerts for filament changes, enhancing the user experience and interaction with the machine.

Q & A

What makes the machine in the video easy to maintain and upgrade?

The machine is designed to be easily opened and worked on, with a simple screwdriver being enough to disassemble it. This makes it very user-friendly for maintenance and upgrades.

How is the company addressing production challenges and lead times for new machines?

The company has hired additional staff (60-70 people) and is scaling up manufacturing to meet the demand. They anticipate that despite the high order volume, lead times should not be excessively long, with restocks potentially occurring within one or two months.

How does the company involve employees in the machine production process?

The company emphasizes the importance of its skilled employees in the production of the machines. They highlight that these employees put significant effort into making the machines, and they aim to showcase their contributions by interviewing them and sharing their stories.

What are some planned upgrades and features for the new machine?

Upcoming features include a magnetic camera module, which can be attached to the machine, and an expansion board that adds extra functionality, such as powering accessories and adding new sensors. There's also potential for future upgrades like a heated dry box or filament storage.

How is the company engaging with the 3D printing community?

The company encourages community engagement through contests, such as a competition for creative uses of leftover enclosures. Additionally, they suggest that other companies or community members may create accessories and add-ons for the machine.

What is the significance of the LED progress bar on the machine?

The LED progress bar on the bed serves as a physical indicator of print progress, moving down in sync with the print. This feature adds a visual element to show how much of the print is completed, which is a unique and helpful feature for users.

What improvements have been made to the app associated with the machine?

The app now includes push notifications that alert users about key events, such as filament changes. This feature helps users stay informed about their prints in real-time, improving the user experience.

How does the company ensure that the machine is both affordable and functional?

The company has worked to make the new machine, such as the Mark 4S, more affordable while maintaining high functionality. This includes thoughtful features like the enclosure for enhanced performance and future upgrade paths.

How do the team and community play a role in the development of the machine?

The team at Prusa Research plays a critical role in the machine's development through hard work and expertise. The community is also invited to contribute by providing feedback, suggesting upgrades, and even participating in contests related to machine accessories.

What’s unique about the new machine’s assembly process?

The assembly process is not industrialized like Ford’s assembly line but is carried out by skilled individuals who carefully work on each machine, ensuring quality control and attention to detail throughout the process.