New Cube 3D Printer - 2nd Generation

The Cubify blog has a brief description of the new Cube 3D printer that also includes this photo.

ICube 3D Printer - 2nd Generation

Here is the description...

Meet the new Cube – the second generation at-home printer that can make anything you can imagine up to 5.5 inches cubed. Keeping all the features that are loved from the original Cube like the easy touchscreen UI, the new Cube printer now prints at 2X better accuracy and 1.5X faster speed with more material choices, and more colors and print modes available.
Along with more options, the new Cube has added safety features such as a glass plate that can hold a 3D printed object without heating up, making it even safer for your home and your children. Cube is the only 3D printer officially certified for home use with IEC regulations.
Another great feature about the new Cube is the user will be able to choose to print in both ABS and PLA plastics without adjusting any settings. The print head detects which materials are in the cartridge automatically. The Cube sells for $1299 or you can purchase a special print pack that comes with 4 cartridges, 25 files and cubify invent for $1399.

 First Analysis...

The specs are spars on the Cubify site.  But, the vertical (layer) resolution has been refined from .25mm to ,20mm.  This should make for nicer looking curved surfaces.  I have no idea if the horizontal accuracy has been improved.  But, this is something I will be testing the first chance that I get.  It's worth a trip to 3D Systems to find out for you, after they get back from CES.

The second thing to note is that we will not be limited to just ABS plastic.  The Next-Generation Cube, as they are calling it, is also able to print PLA.  This probably means that the print jet temperature can now be varied to match the different characteristics of the material.

But, there is also something else hidden in the above description and image that is a bit puzzling.  And, that is the phrase, " the new Cube has added safety features such as a glass plate that can hold a 3D printed object without heating up..."   For all practical purposes, the image of the new version and the original version appear to be identical except for the GLASS bed that is clearly seen in the image.  The glass appears to be frosted.  And, the description says that it no longer needs to be heated.  

This is something that I definitely plan to follow up on as soon as possible.  If they have found a way to print ABS without a heated bed, this is BIG news.  I will try to get to see one as soon as I can to run some tests on the new bed.  I love the toughness of ABS.  But, it needs to be able to be printed without lifting up.  

MORE TO COME....

Note:  If anyone should have any false ideas about my connection with 3D Systems, the fact that they posted their notice about the new version on January 3 and I didn't even know about it until today should set the record straight!  LOL!   I am typically woefully late hearing about new developments because I am concentrating on how to use the Cube more effectively than waiting for press releases!  :)