The Consumer Electronics Show – 3D Tech

As I mentioned previously, I started this New Year flying from the cold and snowy Midwest to a warm and sunny Las Vegas to attend the CES 2015 industry event as I have been doing for thirty-something years.

I’ve participated at CES on both sides of the aisle. For many years we exhibited our computer software products. For the past several years, I’ve been attending as an industry member. Now I have the opportunity to find out what new gadgets are coming down the tech turnpike. All things 3D have been progressing at an amazing clip for the past three or four years. An entire section of South Hall was devoted to the 3D technology. Here’s a few of the neat items that I found at this year’s expo.
Artec Eva 3D Scanner
The 3D scanner is mounted next to a rotating disk on which the subject is standing. The lights fully illuminate the subject.	A couple of minutes later, the completed 3D scan of the subject is displayed on the monitor for everyone to admire. The result is a full body digitized model.
As I was asking the Artec representative questions about how the scanner works, he picks up the scanner and proceeds to give me a “face-on” demonstration. As I stand in place, he walks completely around me, all the time pointing the hand-held device at my head. About 90 seconds later, my face pops up on the monitor. This scanner is a high-end model with a high end price – $19,800 to be exact. For more information, please visit The Artec Group.
Innovative Printers from 3D Systems
3D Systems “invented” 3D printing in 1989. Their large booth had several remarkable and innovative products.
perhaps “on demand” shoes are in the near future	a full size handbag, 3D produced
Modeling a lengthy 3D garment	One of the 3D chefs
deserts “baked” with 3D printer	making music – guitar and drums made with 3D printer
To find out more about their many different 3D printing devices, please visit 3D Systems.
Several New and Lower Priced 3D Printers
MakerBot Replcator Mini – a smaller version of their well-known Replicator printer. This unit sell for $1375.	This model was produced with the Makerbot. For more info, please contact MakerBot
This is the Robo 3D. Maximum object size is 10″x9″x8″. Sells for $799.	Dave holding a model produced with the Robo. For more info, please visit Robo 3D.
New Matter Mod-t is scheduled for Q3 release with suggested price of $400. For more info, please visit New Matter.	For those who believe that 3D printers are for plastic products, here I spotted a few “wooden” 3D objects.

 
 

Yes, 3D printing technology is advancing rapidly and I look forward to faster, better and less expensive products in the near future.

Stay tuned for a few more reports on other gadgets that I found of interest at this year’s CES. They are coming soon.
 
 
Written by: Arnie Lee
 
 

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