Dremel, the creator of the rotary power tool, is shifting to 3D printing with the introduction of the 3D Idea Builder.
The device can print out models of just about anything a user can think of, and features its own print software for customizing 3D models, according to CNET. The 3D Idea Builder can function as a standalone device or work with computers to print models.
Dremel is working with 3D design company Autodesk to offer free 3D models on a new website created for helping people develop their projects. The power tool company is also letting customers use the Autodesk 123D, a collection of free 3D-modeling apps, to design models for the 3D Idea Builder from scratch.
John Kavanagh, president of Dremel, unveiled the printer during a keynote at MakerCon in New York City, saying that 98 percent of people don't know how 3D printers work, and that the company wants to show people what it can do, Gizmag reported.
Features of the printer include a color touchscreen, onboard computing software, and a build area of 230 x 150 x 140 mm (9 x 5.9 x 5.5 in). It can print at a resolution of 100 microns and uses PLA filament with 10 options for colors.
The Idea Builder will compete with other printers in a growing market, which is currently led by MakerBot, CNET reported. MakerBot's wide range of printers includes the Mini and the Replicator.
Preorders for Dremel's new printer begin on Thursday, and it will be available in November for $999 online at Amazon.com, as well as in select Home Depot stores.
Kavanagh said the Idea Builder is only the first of new products that Dremel has planned for its customers, Gizmag reported.
"We'll be offering an increased number of customizers on our site that will further empower people to develop and personalize projects of their own," he added. "Long-term, the partnership with Autodesk will allow us to bring together hardware and software to better address the need of our community."
