Lightmake’s four-tool IDEX 3D printer is now live on Kickstarter.
The company announced the device some weeks ago, generating quite a bit of attention. That’s because the new L4 system includes two unique features.
The first is that it has four toolheads — but they are completely independent. Each can reach across the build area, and even operate simultaneously. We’ve seen four-head machines previously, and we’ve seen two-head IDEX (independent extrusion) systems, but never with four tools.
The second innovation, which might be even more interesting, is how those tools move. Instead of using the traditional stepper motor/belt approach, here the L4 uses linear motors.
What’s a linear motor? It is effectively an electric motor that’s been “unrolled” onto a flat surface. Basically, you have a rail that contains a line of alternating North/South permanent magnets. Then the toolhead contains electromagnets that alternate North/South to magnetically propel the toolhead back and forth.
This means there is no belt to wear out, and Lightmake believes this should extend the life of the system to 50,000 hours, about 5X the typical lifetime.
It should also be more precise than typical systems, as Lightmake claims a motion system accuracy of under one micrometer.
Why haven’t we seen this approach done in previous 3D printers? It’s likely cost. To implement the L4, Lightmake has to produce eight rails covered in permanent magnets, and that could be expensive. However, Lightmake has somehow figured out how to produce the L4 at low cost.
The MSRP for the L4 is US$2,399, a fair bit higher than typical desktop FFF 3D printers, which is not surprising. What is surprising is that their Kickstarter launch “limited VIP offer” is only US$1,099! However, you’ll have to pre-pay US$50 to access that deal.
Meanwhile, the remaining features on the L4 are quite useful:
- Large build volume of 354 x 370 x 386 mm
- Optional “FEDS” filament swapper accessory
- 320C maximum nozzle temperature
- 6.5” colour touchscreen
- Low waste due to multiple tools
- AI monitoring camera system
- Prints PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, ASA, PVA, PET, PLA-CF, PET-CF, PA, PC
The L4 appears to be quite a powerful and unique 3D printer that could be ideal for farm use: it won’t wear out for quite a long time.
Via Kickstarter and Lightmake
