3D printing continues to evolve and new innovations are being made in the sector. This includes speed, materials, size, and quality. Machine manufacturers constantly search for more or smaller quantities. And this project from the YouTuber “My N Mi” is a perfect example. He claims to have created the world’s smallest 3D printer. The tiny solution measures just 1.8x3x4cm and only 17g in weight.
The YouTube video he shows you how it works is a small model of the mannequin. The device is small enough to only produce parts with a volume of 11x11x17 mm. However, the results are impressive in terms of both the execution of the process and the quality. Thanks to a small motor that moves the printing plate and an LCD screen that polymerizes the resin, the mini 3D printer can design small detailed objects – meaning that the solution uses photopolymerization. The resin tank is small enough that you must add the material drop by drop with a syringe. The printer can be used for 3D microprinting, which allows for the creation of tiny components for other applications.
The part was created using the mini 3D printer. Photo credit: My N Mi
Although the author has not made any plans or schematics available for the printer, the demonstration video has created some interest in the 3D printing community. Some have suggested that the printer could prove to be an invaluable tool for engineers and researchers working on small-scale projects. Of course, it won’t be able to print medium or large series, but this supposedly smallest 3D printer is still quite original considering its size and features. The specifications show that it can print with accuracy between 0.135 and 0.3mm on the ZY axis. Layer resolutions range from 0.005 to 0.33 mm.
It was constructed using a mix of printed and commercial parts. Although it isn’t yet available commercially, the inventor may release it or make the plans for creating it in his own home. We’re not convinced it will be a huge success – it’s still a gadget, but this project deserved to be covered!
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*Cover Photo Credits: MyN Mi
