System family prints multiple materials simultaneously

3d printing specialist, Objet Geometries, has launched the Connex350, the company's second rapid prototyping system.

It allows product developers and manufacturers to simultaneously print multiple materials with different mechanical and physical properties. The Connex350 features the same technology as its predecessor, the Connex500, with a smaller build tray size (350 x 350 x 200mm) The Connex350 incorporates Objet's PolyJet matrix technology, which the company says yields high quality multi material models, with levels of detail that emulates the look, feel and function of end products. The system achieves multi material printing by jetting two distinct Objet FullCure photopolymer model materials in preset combinations. The dual-jet process combines these multiple materials to produce mixed parts and to create digital materials that have preset, user defined combinations of mechanical properties. The two FullCure model materials are jetted from designated nozzles according to location and model type, providing control of their structure and mechanical properties. The combination of rubberlike, flexible material and rigid material allows users to print models for a variety of applications, from coating and shock absorbers to living hinges and gaskets.