source: Jonathan Keep
Annoyed and frustrated by 3D Systems buying out and then stopping the production of the RapMan 3D printer. This was the first kit printer Belgian design duo Unfold adapted to print with clay and has subsequently been copied and widely used by others, I decided to develop my own replacement 3D printer.
Based on the delta type of 3D printer my aim has been to use parts that can either be made with basic DIY tools and skills, or ordered off the internet. The design is specifically for printing in clay but could be adapted to work with other materials.
Many other self build 3D printers use parts printed in plastic but with this project I did not want to be reliant on already having access to a 3D printer.
This document is not a blue print for building a 3D printer but more my documentation of what I have done.
My experience is as an artist and not as an engineer or computer specialist so I am sure there are many improvements that could be made but this is what works for me. I welcome others to take up the design and develop it further but only in a private or research and education context. Please respect my ethos of sharing and the humanity to be found in generosity. This project was borne out of the disgust of the practices of big business so please do not blatantly use the information I am offering for commercial gain.
Being more interested in what might be creatively produced with 3D printers I am happy to contribute openly to the growing knowledge based around clay and computerisation but it come with a warning.
As difficult as it is to pull all the technology and computerisation together I suggest it is even more difficult to do something creative, fresh and meaningful with this technology. I look forward to seeing what others can do with it. By 3D printer standards this is a rather primitive tool set, but it does offer an accessible way into a very exciting new way of working with clay.
Images credit: Jonathan Keep
For full BOM (bill of materials), suppliers and build documentation have a look at Jonathan’s website where he documentates his design.
Watch the video below for the full build and operation. “By 3D printer standards this is a rather primitive tool set, but it does offer an accessible way into a very exciting new way of working with clay.” writes Jonathan.
