Chris Lane's Z-Belt XL Is a Foldable Wi-Fi-Connected 3D Printer with an "Infinite" Build Space
Based on the Duet Wifi — though that's subject to change — this 3D printer supports an infinite Z length and up to three extruders.
Venturi3D founder Chris Lane has announced work on a large-format 3D printer with integrated belt, designed for automated mass production of parts up to 500mm wide, 500mm tall, and "infinity" in length: the Z-Belt XL.
"It's official. I'm working on a large-format belt 3D printer," says Lane of the project. "I have gone through several design revisions and am about 80% done with the prototype. There are some special features not seen on other belt printers."
"This is still early in the design/development phase. There are several small issues I'm working through. I initially had a CoreXY design but the belt length was causing issues and mounting of multiple tool heads proved to be easier by going with a Cartesian setup."
The prototype, Lane claims, offers a "500 x 500 x infinity build volume," is based on a direct drive system, offers support for up to three extruder heads printing three copies of an object simultaneously, and folds for easy assembly and transportation. Its controller, meanwhile, is the Duet Wifi — "currently," Lane notes, suggesting a shift isn't out of the question.
"I believe with this size of printer, the possibilities for useful products far exceeds many other printers," Lane claims. "I am still coming up with ideas on use cases for this size of printer. Belt printers are still very new and there's some learning curve to it, but the potential is amazing."
Lane has yet to suggesting pricing and a target launch date for the design, with more information available in his Twitter thread.
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