Inova MK1 Open-Supply SLS 3D Printer: Technical Specs and Pricing

SLS4All, a Czech open-hardware initiative created by engineers Tomas Starek and Pavel Dyntera, has launched the Inova MK1, a selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printer designed for practical prototyping, academic use, and small-batch manufacturing. Developed over three and a half years, the system affords full management over {hardware} and software program, with full documentation made publicly accessible for non-commercial use.

The MK1 employs a 10W blue diode laser working at 450 nm, centered by way of a Galvo scanner with a spot dimension of roughly 350 microns. Vertical motion is managed by a Nema17 stepper motor and ball screw. The machine includes a 177 x 177 x 200 mm construct chamber (6.3 liters), with an efficient quantity of 150 x 150 x 180 mm (4.1 liters) for printing PA12 nylon-based components.

Print pace reaches 9 mm/hour within the Z-axis at 25% scan density and 100-micron layer thickness, with scanning speeds as much as 2,800 mm/s. Preheating requires below 45 minutes for 230V items and below 75 minutes for 110V. Cooling time ranges from 30 to 50 p.c of the overall cycle, relying on half geometry and thermal load.

Supplies, Thermal Administration and Connectivity

Inova MK1 helps polymer powders solely. PA12 and TPU-based supplies are validated, whereas different thermoplastics with melting factors below 200°C could also be examined at person discretion. The system just isn’t supposed for steel powders. SLS know-how permits unsupported printing, enabling advanced designs and constant floor high quality. Printed components are appropriate for practical testing, end-use functions, and engineering analysis on account of their mechanical, thermal, and chemical resistance.

The system integrates closed-loop temperature monitoring and computerized firmware shutdown within the occasion of heater or sensor failure. A devoted {hardware} watchdog displays system well being independently. A 5MP onboard digital camera gives real-time chamber visibility. Protecting goggles for 450 nm laser use are included.

Distant operation is on the market through browser over LAN or Wi-Fi. A 7-inch IPS touchscreen permits full native management of nesting, slicing, printing, and upkeep duties. USB ports present further file administration choices. Each 110–120V and 220–230V variations are supported.

Software program and {Hardware}

SLS4All Compact, the system’s management software program stack, is constructed on Klipper and handles low-level movement management, slicing, nesting, and heating routines. Firmware updates are delivered by way of a single-click internet-based process. Customers can customise toolpaths, chamber warmth profiles, scan density, and materials parameters. The system is managed by a Raspberry Pi 5, included in each package configurations.

The complete package contains all structural, digital, optical, and thermal parts required for meeting, together with insulation, wiring, and a touchscreen interface. Estimated construct time is 4 to seven days utilizing the included handbook and tutorial movies.

The DIY model gives optics, electronics, sensors, and heaters however omits all structural panels, 3D printed parts, insulation, fasteners, and wiring. Builders should fabricate or supply these independently. Performance can’t be assured if the printer is assembled with non-standard or incompatible components.

Documentation, Licensing, and Neighborhood

Documentation for mechanical components, electronics, and management firmware is publicly accessible. The design is roofed below a non-commercial open-source license that prohibits resale or manufacturing of by-product printers for revenue. Most firmware supply code is already launched; remaining parts will likely be printed incrementally.

Superior customers can modify firmware routines, chamber geometry, galvo conduct, and thermal profiles. The machine’s body is designed to assist mechanical upgrades. All vital electronics and optical parts are sourced from suppliers with publicly accessible replacements.

SLS4All gives assist by way of Discord, e mail, and WhatsApp. Workshops are deliberate as soon as the person base grows. A $10 pattern package containing three PA12 prints made on the MK1 is on the market for customers looking for to guage decision and floor high quality. Pattern units ship inside three enterprise days if in inventory or inside every week when backordered. Customized half printing and stay demonstrations can be found upon request.

Delivery and Pricing

Inova MK1 is on the market in two configurations. The complete package is priced at $6,990 (€6,490), together with all parts required for full meeting. The DIY set is priced at $3,860 and is meant for customers who can fabricate or supply the remaining structural components. Costs exclude VAT and transport. Full kits start transport in October 2025. DIY units are delivered inside 6 to 10 weeks of buy. FedEx and DHL deal with international transport, with charges calculated at checkout. Complete bundle weight is roughly 55 kilograms.

Technical Specs

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Featured photograph reveals entrance view of the Inova MK1 with built-in 7-inch IPS touchscreen. Picture through SLS4ALL.