3D Systems, which partnered with Google's Project Ara team, is not using conventional 3D printing process to create the miniature components of Project Ara's ambitious new modular smartphone.
In place of the typical "reciprocating platform" typically used in 3D printing, which is characterized by speed increases and decreases that add up to lengthen the printing time, 3D Systems is creating a more streamlined process called a continuous motion system that will allow the company to print "millions and hopefully billions of units."
"To bring the modular cell phone experience to the market by the anticipated 2015, we are creating a continuous, high-speed 3D printing production platform and fulfillment system to accommodate production-level speeds and volume. This methodology breaks away from the 'reciprocating platform' of many contemporary 3D printers," writes 3D Systems on its blog.
"We're creating a continuous motion system around a racetrack architecture that will allow module shells to move in a continuous flow with additional 'off ramps' for various finishing steps, including inserts and other module manipulations," continues the blog post.
3D systems said it has teamed up with Carnegie Mellon University and X5 Systems to develop conductive inks that will be used to create antennas and other functional smartphone parts. The company also said it will print the modules in full spectrum CMYKWT (cyan, magenta, yellow, black, white and clear).
Dubbed the Gray Phone, the $50 Project Ara handset was intentionally designed to be boring so users can customize it to their own liking. It will not be available until January next year. Do-it-yourself enthusiasts, however, are already psyched over Google's innovative modular approach to creating affordable, personalized smartphones.
At the Project Ara Developers Conference held last month, Google gave consumers a sneak peak at the prototype of the Gray Phone, which features electro-permanent magnets that can keep in place various modules, such as a keyboard, application processor or even a pulse oximeter.
"This means that as individual features are enhanced, rather than chucking your whole device for a new camera, you simply slide out the old one and clip in the new one-badda-bing, badda-boom; you have a better phone with less waste," says 3D Systems.
Google expects its innovative new Gray Phone to last up to six years with continuous piecemeal updates, unlike the smartphones currently available in the market that require replacement two or three years after purchase.
For now, however, Google is still working on its Android operating system to provide full support for the Gray Phone's dynamic hardware. Project Ara team leader Paul Eremenko says the drivers will not be ready until the end of 2014.
