Latest news with #Prusa
Business Mayor
21-05-2025
- Business
- Business Mayor
Philips to Offer Free Downloadable Files to 3D Print Replacement Parts
Though Philips is no longer the consumer electronics giant they once were—they've shifted into health technology—they still manufacture some personal care items, like electric shavers and hair dryers. Now, somewhat bizarrely, they're dipping their foot into the DIY repair movement to support those products. The company has partnered with Prusa, the Czech company that has become one of the world's largest manufacturers of 3D printers, to launch this new Philips Fixables initiative. The idea is that Philips will provide 3D files for replacement parts for their products. Consumers will be able to download these files and print the parts themselves, or through a supplier. For now the selection is quite sparse—the only downloadable file available is for a trimmer comb—but the initiative has only launched this month, and the company says more parts are to come. (And hopefully more languages, too; at present the Fixables website is only presented in Czech.) Enter a caption (optional)
Geeky Gadgets
16-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Prusa Core One 3D Printer Teardown: Engineering Marvel or Missed Opportunity?
What secrets lie beneath the sleek exterior of the Prusa Core One 3D printer? Touted as a fantastic option in consumer 3D printing, this machine combines innovative engineering with a practical, user-focused design. But how does it truly measure up when you strip it down to its core? In this exploration, we'll uncover the intricate details of its construction, from the rigid steel frame to the innovative CoreXY motion system. By dissecting its components and design choices, we aim to reveal not just what makes this printer tick, but also where it might fall short of expectations. Through this detailed teardown by Vector 3D, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the Core One's build quality, modularity, and the balance it strikes between innovation and practicality. From its vibration-dampening rivets to its CNC-machined extruder assembly, each feature tells a story about Prusa's priorities and compromises. Whether you're a curious hobbyist, a professional maker, or someone considering their next 3D printer, this analysis will offer valuable insights into the machine's strengths and limitations. Let's peel back the layers and see what the Core One truly brings to the table. Prusa Core One Overview Design and Build Quality The Prusa Core One employs a CoreXY motion system, a design renowned for its precision and efficiency. Its structural frame is crafted from 1mm thick powder-coated steel, assembled using folded tab joints. This construction method ensures rigidity and alignment, both of which are essential for maintaining high print accuracy. The external panels are secured with nylon rivets, which serve multiple purposes: they provide vibration damping, simplify assembly, and reduce production costs. While these rivets may lack the premium feel of screws, they are a functional choice that minimizes noise and streamlines the manufacturing process. The fully enclosed design enhances thermal stability, making the printer suitable for working with high-temperature materials like ABS and nylon. However, the plastic enclosure panels, while lightweight and cost-effective, may feel less durable compared to alternatives such as glass or metal. Despite this, the overall build quality reflects Prusa's emphasis on reliability and practicality, making sure the printer meets the needs of a wide range of users. Component Analysis The internal components of the Core One demonstrate a thoughtful balance between innovation and practicality. The CoreXY motion system integrates steel rods, linear rails, and CNC-machined parts, making sure smooth and precise movement. For the Z-axis, the printer employs three lead screws and two guide rods, a configuration that enhances alignment and load distribution. This design minimizes wobble and contributes to consistent print quality. One standout feature is the inclusion of 3D-printed motor dampers, which effectively reduce vibration and noise without compromising torque transfer. This results in a quieter and more stable operation, particularly during long print jobs. Additionally, CNC-machined components in critical areas, such as the extruder assembly, underscore the printer's focus on precision and durability. Prusa Core One 3D Printer Teardown Watch this video on YouTube. Gain further expertise in 3D printers by checking out these recommendations. Extruder and Hotend The extruder assembly of the Core One borrows proven design elements from the Prusa MK4, making sure compatibility and performance consistency. It features a CNC-machined cold side, which improves filament tension, nozzle probing, and heat dissipation. This compatibility allows users to integrate existing Prusa components seamlessly, enhancing the printer's modularity and ease of maintenance. The toolhead board incorporates advanced features, including load cell data conversion, which enables precise filament monitoring and efficient communication between components. While the extruder design prioritizes reliability and user-friendliness, it may lack the novelty some users expect from a new machine. However, its proven performance and practical design make it a valuable choice for both beginners and experienced users. Electronics and Wiring The Core One's electronics are designed with modularity and accessibility in mind. The printer features a dual-board setup: the XBuddy controller, powered by an STM32F4 microcontroller, and the XBuddy extension board, which uses an STM32H5 microcontroller. This configuration enhances the system's processing power and flexibility, making sure it can handle complex tasks with ease. Wiring is carefully organized, with Molex Clickmate connectors simplifying maintenance and reducing the risk of loose connections. Thermal management is handled by a chamber temperature sensor and PWM fans, which ensure consistent performance during extended print jobs. A motor splitter PCB manages the Z-axis stepper motors, streamlining control and reducing wiring complexity. These features collectively highlight Prusa's commitment to user convenience and system reliability. Reusability and Compatibility One of the Core One's defining strengths is its compatibility with existing Prusa components, particularly those from the MK4. This approach reduces production risks, ensures a steady supply of replacement parts, and allows users to upgrade their machines incrementally. By reusing proven components, Prusa extends the printer's lifespan and enhances its value for long-term use. However, this reliance on established components may limit the Core One's appeal to users seeking innovative innovations. While the machine excels in reliability and practicality, it may not feel as innovative as entirely new designs. This trade-off reflects Prusa's focus on delivering a dependable and user-friendly product rather than pursuing novelty for its own sake. User Experience and Assembly Prusa has placed a strong emphasis on user experience, providing all the necessary tools for disassembly and maintenance. The modular design simplifies repairs and upgrades, making the Core One accessible to a wide range of users. However, certain design choices, such as the use of plastic panels and nylon rivets, may feel less premium to those accustomed to higher-end materials. During the teardown, a pinched wire was observed, highlighting the importance of quality control during assembly. While this is likely an isolated issue, it underscores the need for thorough inspections to maintain consistent quality. Overall, the Core One's design prioritizes ease of use and practicality, making sure a positive experience for most users. Potential Concerns The Core One's design strikes a balance between innovation and practicality, but it comes with certain trade-offs. Limited user access to internal components without disassembly may frustrate those who enjoy tinkering or making custom modifications. Additionally, the reliance on existing Prusa components, while practical, may reduce the perceived novelty of the machine for users seeking a more innovative design. Despite these concerns, the Core One remains a well-engineered and reliable 3D printer that caters to a broad audience, from hobbyists to professionals. Its focus on modularity, compatibility, and user-friendliness ensures it meets the needs of most users while maintaining a high standard of performance. Media Credit: Vector 3D Filed Under: Hardware, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. 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The Sun
15-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Molex Collaborates with Prusa Research to Scale Rapid Growth Trajectory for 3D-Printing Pioneer
• Robust yet simple connectivity solutions leveraged in widely popular 3D printers used by home hobbyists, students, small businesses and large industrial companies • More than one million components populated on Prusa printers last year, using up to 16 types of Molex CLIK-Mate connectors for flexible, flawless performance • More than 20 printer designs rely on Molex to ensure seamless connectivity while streamlining printer-kit assemblies, as well as machine modifications and upgrades LISLE, IL - Media OutReach Newswire - 15 May 2025 - Molex, a global electronics leader and connectivity innovator, is growing right along with Prusa Research, a rising star in the fast-paced world of 3D printing with more than 1,000 employees on three continents supporting a diverse and devoted base of customers worldwide. The Prague-based company strives to offer seamless experiences and unmatched flexibility for a variety of printing needs. Guided by a steadfast commitment to community, sustainability, as well as open-source hardware and software principles, Prusa offers its printers fully assembled or as Do It Yourself (DIY) printer kits. Equally important is the ability for customers to unlock new capabilities over time through hardware and software modifications, add-ons and upgrades. 'Prusa Research needed connectivity systems with the right balance of functionality and simplicity without compromising quality,' said Brian Hauge, SVP and president, Consumer and Commercial Solutions, Molex. 'With support from Arrow Electronics, we provide a full portfolio of connectors that are robust yet easy to use. Molex also stays in lockstep with Arrow and Prusa engineers to align emerging printer designs with new innovative connector solutions to ease new product introductions and upgrades.' Rapid Growth Trajectory Prusa's unwavering customer focus, passion for community and strong technology partnerships are cornerstones for driving a sustained rate of incredible growth. The company processed more than 300,000 orders for printers, filaments, resins and accessories last year while opening a U.S. subsidiary called Printed Solid, in Newark, Del., to further expand global reach by manufacturing printers and filaments in the United States. 'In 2024, Prusa grew 25% year over year, and we are excited for this year, which will be even bigger,' said Josef Prusa, CEO of Prusa Research. 'We populated over one million parts using Molex CLIK-Mate connectors last year and they all have performed very well. We now have more than 20 printer designs, and they all use Molex connectors. Looking ahead, we will continue to work with Arrow and Molex to drive our further expansion in Europe while building out manufacturing capabilities in the U.S.' To drive sustained growth, Prusa deployed Molex CLIK-Mate wire-to-board connectors, which align well with the company's high standards for performance and straightforward operation. Ideal for devices that require connectors to carry more signal lines in less space, these wire-to-board connectors feature a unique tuning-fork terminal design that provides low-insertion force while maintaining secure contacts. Prusa particularly appreciates the audible 'click' sound that offers immediate confirmation of secure contact, as well as easy automatic board placement and simplified set-up for at-home customers. Not only do CLIK-Mate connectors prevent DIY users from inserting them in the wrong orientation, but they also enable Prusa engineers to streamline production by speeding surface mount technology (SMT) line assembly. Compact, high-performance Molex Micro-Fit Connectors, which blend power and flexibility without impacting space or reliability, also are deployed by Prusa. In addition, Molex ultra-microcoaxial RF connectors are used to link Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectors, along with other Molex solutions for supporting high-speed data and RF microwave technology. Up to 16 types of CLIK-Mate connectors currently help Prusa streamline printer production. Molex connectors are featured across Prusa's printer line, including the new CORE One printer, which hit the market this past January. Other connectivity solutions, such as Molex's Easy-On FFC/FPC Connectors, as well as custom connectivity solutions, are being explored to enhance support for existing and new printers.
Associated Press
13-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Molex Collaborates with Prusa Research to Scale Rapid Growth Trajectory for 3D-Printing Pioneer
LISLE, Ill., May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Molex, a global electronics leader and connectivity innovator, is growing right along with Prusa Research, a rising star in the fast-paced world of 3D printing with more than 1,000 employees on three continents supporting a diverse and devoted base of customers worldwide. The Prague-based company strives to offer seamless experiences and unmatched flexibility for a variety of printing needs. Guided by a steadfast commitment to community, sustainability, as well as open-source hardware and software principles, Prusa offers its printers fully assembled or as Do It Yourself (DIY) printer kits. Equally important is the ability for customers to unlock new capabilities over time through hardware and software modifications, add-ons and upgrades. 'Prusa Research needed connectivity systems with the right balance of functionality and simplicity without compromising quality,' said Brian Hauge, SVP and president, Consumer and Commercial Solutions, Molex. 'With support from Arrow Electronics, we provide a full portfolio of connectors that are robust yet easy to use. Molex also stays in lockstep with Arrow and Prusa engineers to align emerging printer designs with new innovative connector solutions to ease new product introductions and upgrades.' Rapid Growth Trajectory Prusa's unwavering customer focus, passion for community and strong technology partnerships are cornerstones for driving a sustained rate of incredible growth. The company processed more than 300,000 orders for printers, filaments, resins and accessories last year while opening a U.S. subsidiary called Printed Solid, in Newark, Del., to further expand global reach by manufacturing printers and filaments in the United States. 'In 2024, Prusa grew 25% year over year, and we are excited for this year, which will be even bigger,' said Josef Prusa, CEO of Prusa Research. 'We populated over one million parts using Molex CLIK-Mate connectors last year and they all have performed very well. We now have more than 20 printer designs, and they all use Molex connectors. Looking ahead, we will continue to work with Arrow and Molex to drive our further expansion in Europe while building out manufacturing capabilities in the U.S.' To drive sustained growth, Prusa deployed Molex CLIK-Mate wire-to-board connectors, which align well with the company's high standards for performance and straightforward operation. Ideal for devices that require connectors to carry more signal lines in less space, these wire-to-board connectors feature a unique tuning-fork terminal design that provides low-insertion force while maintaining secure contacts. Prusa particularly appreciates the audible 'click' sound that offers immediate confirmation of secure contact, as well as easy automatic board placement and simplified set-up for at-home customers. Not only do CLIK-Mate connectors prevent DIY users from inserting them in the wrong orientation, but they also enable Prusa engineers to streamline production by speeding surface mount technology (SMT) line assembly. Compact, high-performance Molex Micro-Fit Connectors, which blend power and flexibility without impacting space or reliability, also are deployed by Prusa. In addition, Molex ultra-microcoaxial RF connectors are used to link Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectors, along with other Molex solutions for supporting high-speed data and RF microwave technology. Up to 16 types of CLIK-Mate connectors currently help Prusa streamline printer production. Molex connectors are featured across Prusa's printer line, including the new CORE One printer, which hit the market this past January. Other connectivity solutions, such as Molex's Easy-On FFC/FPC Connectors, as well as custom connectivity solutions, are being explored to enhance support for existing and new printers. Supporting Resources About Molex Molex is a global electronics leader committed to making the world a better, more-connected place. With a presence in more than 38 countries, Molex enables transformative technology innovation in the consumer device, aerospace and defense, data center, cloud, telecommunications, transportation, industrial automation and healthcare industries. Through trusted customer and industry relationships, unrivaled engineering expertise, and product quality and reliability, Molex realizes the infinite potential of Creating Connections for Life. For more information, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Molex Incorporated
USA Today
10-02-2025
- Business
- USA Today
Here's how Trump's new tariffs on steel and aluminum will affect NJ consumers, businesses
Hear this story President Donald Trump has vowed imposing 25% tariffs starting Monday on steel and aluminum imports into the United States, a move which experts say will have far-reaching impacts on business owners and average consumers in New Jersey. "It's time for the United States to return to the system that made us richer and more powerful than ever before," Trump said over the weekend. He is expected to formally announce the tariffs Monday afternoon. Economists warn that tariffs, which are taxes on foreign imports, can lead to higher prices for consumers. Trump promised during his campaign to bring down inflation. But one week into his second term, Trump has shown he plans to use tariffs — a hallmark of his first term — as a tool to achieve both his foreign policy aims and domestic agenda. In New Jersey, the new tariffs on metals would affect everything from construction projects to grocery shopping, manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, experts say. Story continues below photo gallery 'There is no upside' in the state, said Thomas Prusa, an economist at Rutgers University in New Brunswick who studies international trade. Earlier this month, Trump promised blanket 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, a move he claimed would clamp down on the flow of migrants and fentanyl over the U.S borders. Trump later agreed to put those tariffs on hold for a month, but went ahead with 10% tariffs on Chinese imports. 'Once you put on tariffs, business slows down, investment slows down, decisions slow down," Tom Clark, the Canadian consul general in New York, told "They would anticipate that there would be a slowdown of economic traffic.' Where does the U.S get its steel? In 2024, 23% of all steel used in the U.S. was imported, with Canada, Brazil, Mexico, South Korea and Vietnam as the largest suppliers, according to the American Iron and Steel Institute. The U.S gets most of its aluminum imports from Canada, Reuters reported. Even with domestically-sourced steel and aluminum, the fear is that those producers would 'feel they're emboldened to raise prices,' said Eddie Russnow, president of Kearny-based Mac Products, which makes electrical distribution and transmission products. Russnow's firm was 'ordering forward" with its Chinese suppliers for the steel and copper used for many of Mac's components. And even if the tariffs do boost U.S. production of steel and aluminum, that could take years, said Prusa, the Rutgers trade economist. Higher costs on construction Steel is used primarily on commercial construction — warehouses, garages and office space — said Prusa. It's used to a lesser extent in residential construction for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, as well as pipes. More:NJ companies worry consumers will spend less due to fear of Trump's tariffs In building construction, steel is used in 'beams, roofing, brackets and reinforcing,' he said, as well as in key infrastructure, such as bridges, railings, railways, lighting, and safety barriers. Think of the huge Gateway project underway to build a new train tunnel beneath the Hudson River between North Jersey and Manhattan to improve service for NJ Transit and Amtrak riders. Potential for costlier pharmaceuticals Aluminum is used in packaging for medication, Prusa said. It's also used in certain consumer products, including antacids, astringents, aspirin, food additives, antiperspirants and cosmetics, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New Jersey-based drugmaker Johnson & Johnson produces some antacids, such as Pepcid Complete, while Bayer, which has many facilities in Morris County, is the largest producer of aspirin. Johnson & Johnson is also one of the world's largest producers of cosmetics, including beauty products for skin care and hair care. What about Trump's previous tariffs on steel and aluminum? Trump imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum in 2017. But he reached a deal in 2019 to lift those tariffs on Mexico and Canada. There were also exemptions for South Korea and Australia. The tariffs reduced the import of steel to the U.S by 24% while increasing domestic steel production by 1.9%, according to a 2023 report by the U.S International Trade Commission. And, the report added, tariffs pushed the price of steel up by 2.4%. Prices of aluminum foil peaked in June 2018 amid the tariffs, according to data from the St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank. This article contains information from USA Today Daniel Munoz covers business, consumer affairs, labor and the economy for and The Record. Email: munozd@ Twitter:@danielmunoz100 and Facebook
