Palette 3D printer accessory fuses filaments for multicolor printing

The latest 3D-printing innovation, Palette, can fuse various filaments end-over-end to create multicolored objects and embedded circuitry by using electrical filaments. 3D-printing has come a long way, and as the technology becomes more popular, we're seeing cheaper models hit the shelves and 3D-printers capable of using bio-materials to make medical-grade implants. Previously, single-nozzle 3D-printers have only been able to print monochrome creations. Palette wants to give the ability to print multiple filaments to any single-nozzle 3D-printer, creating smooth, multicolored creations.

Palette is 3D-printer accessory that works with your existing printer to create multicolored products. The Palette's new technique actually joins the filaments end to end, creating a single, seamless filament that feeds into your existing printer's extruder. The filament changes are calibrated based on your precise design input.

Using electrical filaments, the design team 3D-printed a basic flashlight. Even more possibilities could unfold when Palette gets in the hands of electrical engineers. As new filaments enter the market, like magnetic or stainless steel infused materials, the applications for Palette increase exponentially.

The development team designed Palette to work with any 3D-printer and software, and the group is making the firmware and software open-source. The Palette is available for a Kickstarter pledge of $849 USD, although it's currently sold-out Super Early Bird Special was only $599 USD.

Perhaps one day, Palette's technology will lead to the ability to fuse cartilage and electrical filaments, making implants with embedded circuits. We shall soon see, as Mosaic Manufacturing just launched a Kickstarter campaign for Palette has already surpassed its initial crowdfunding goal of $75,000 USD, and orders are due to ship in January.

Check out the Palette in action here:

Source: Kickstarter