No More Kodak 3D Printing: Smart International Fades Away

Another 3D printer manufacturer has met its demise as Smart International, the Argentina-based company that had licensed the Kodak brand for 3D printing, has seemingly ceased operations. Once known for its Kodak-branded Portrait 3D printer, which gained recognition for its dual extrusion capabilities, enclosed chamber, and compatibility with a wide range of materials, Smart International shifted their focus to production 3D printers like the “Macro” system. However, the company has been noticeably absent from trade shows and their websites have been taken over by advertising. While the reasons behind their shutdown remain unknown, it is likely due to increased competition in the market from larger players. Unfortunately, support for their printers, like the Kodak Portrait, is no longer available, leaving users to either find alternative solutions or invest in a new 3D printer.

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Overview

In this comprehensive article, we will explore the rise and fall of Smart International, the Argentina-based company that licensed the Kodak brand for 3D printing. We will discuss their transition from consumer-focused printers to production 3D printers, the subsequent disappearance of the company, and the impact it has had on Kodak Portrait 3D printer users. Additionally, we will explore the competition in the 3D printer manufacturing market, alternative options for 3D printing, and the partnership between Artec 3D and Handicap International in the production of prosthetics. Finally, we will delve into the viability of 3D printing in the furniture industry and conclude with a summary of the key points discussed throughout the article.

Introduction: Smart International and Kodak 3D Printing

Background of Smart International

Smart International, an Argentina-based company, gained recognition in the 3D printing industry when they licensed the Kodak brand for their printers. Their entry into the market occurred in 2018 when they unveiled the Kodak-branded Portrait 3D printer at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). This printer was well-regarded at the time, offering dual extrusion, an enclosed chamber, and compatibility with a wide range of materials.

Licensing of the Kodak brand

One aspect that set Smart International apart from other 3D printer manufacturers was their licensing agreement with Kodak. This partnership allowed them to leverage the Kodak brand name and reputation in the printing industry, providing a sense of reliability and quality to consumers. The licensing agreement granted Smart International the rights to use the Kodak brand for 3D printers.

Introduction of the Kodak-branded Portrait 3D printer

The Kodak-branded Portrait 3D printer was a significant milestone for both Smart International and Kodak. It showcased the capabilities of the brand in the 3D printing industry and demonstrated their commitment to innovation. The printer featured cutting-edge technology at the time, such as dual extrusion, which allowed for the simultaneous use of two different materials in the printing process. With its superior performance and versatility, the Portrait printer garnered attention and positive reviews from users and experts alike.

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Shift to Production 3D Printers

Change in Focus

Over time, Smart International decided to shift their focus from consumer-oriented 3D printers to production printers. This change in strategy was driven by the competitive pressures within the industry, as other manufacturers also began targeting the production space. By pivoting their focus, Smart International aimed to capture a larger market share and cater to the growing demand for production-grade 3D printers.

Announcement of the ‘Macro’ system

As part of their transition to production 3D printers, Smart International announced the development of the ‘Macro’ system. The Macro system was an array-style printer targeted at industrial users. It boasted several innovative features, including prototyping and production units that could efficiently handle a full development workflow. The introduction of the Macro system demonstrated Smart International’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the manufacturing industry.

Features of the Macro system

The Macro system offered a range of features that set it apart from other production 3D printers in the market. Some notable features included a large build volume, high printing speed, and compatibility with a wide variety of materials. These capabilities made the Macro system an attractive option for businesses seeking high-quality, efficient, and versatile 3D printing solutions for their production processes.

Disappearance of Smart International

Lack of Updates and Trade Show Appearances

In recent years, Smart International has become increasingly absent from public view. They stopped providing regular updates and failed to appear at major trade shows. This sudden lack of presence raised concerns among industry experts and consumers, leading to speculation about the company’s status and future.

Takeover of Company Website

A significant indicator of Smart International’s disappearance was the takeover of their company website. Visitors to the website were greeted by advertising trolls and messages congratulating them for winning products unrelated to 3D printing. This unprofessional and unauthorized use of the company’s website raised further questions about the status and legitimacy of Smart International.

Speculation on Reasons for Shutdown

Despite the lack of official announcements, industry observers and experts have speculated on the reasons behind Smart International’s shutdown. One plausible explanation is the intense competition within the 3D printer manufacturing market. With the emergence of several big players in recent years, smaller manufacturers like Smart International have struggled to keep up and compete effectively. The pressure from larger competitors may have led to operational and financial challenges, ultimately resulting in the company’s downfall.

Impact on Kodak Portrait 3D Printer Users

Lack of Support

One of the immediate consequences of Smart International’s disappearance is the lack of support for Kodak Portrait 3D printer users. With the company ceasing operations, users have been left without access to technical assistance, troubleshooting, and warranty coverage. This absence of support can be frustrating for users who rely on the printer for their projects and production processes.

Closure of Slicing Software

Another significant impact on Kodak Portrait 3D printer users is the closure of the slicing software associated with the printer. The Portrait printer relied on web-based slicing software, which allowed users to prepare and optimize their 3D models for printing. However, with the company’s website gone, users no longer have access to this essential software, making it difficult to continue using their Kodak Portrait printers as intended.

Possible Workarounds

While the lack of support and closure of slicing software may seem like insurmountable obstacles, there are potential workarounds for Kodak Portrait 3D printer users. One option is to explore alternative slicing software solutions that are compatible with the printer. While pre-made configurations for the Portrait printer may not be readily available, it is possible to create custom printer profiles to get the printer working with alternative software. Another option for users is to consider investing in a new 3D printer altogether. With many good choices available in the market, users can explore alternative options that suit their specific needs and requirements.

Competition in the 3D Printer Manufacturing Market

Emergence of Big Players

The 3D printer manufacturing market has witnessed the emergence of several big players in recent years. Companies such as Stratasys, Ultimaker, and MakerBot have established themselves as dominant forces and have continuously demonstrated their capabilities in producing high-quality 3D printers. The rise of these big players has intensified competition within the industry and posed challenges for smaller manufacturers like Smart International, ultimately leading to their downfall.

Challenges for Smaller Manufacturers

Smaller manufacturers face several challenges in competing with the big players in the 3D printer manufacturing market. These challenges include limited financial resources, difficulty in scaling production, and the need to differentiate themselves in terms of technology and innovation. In a highly competitive market, smaller manufacturers must find a niche or develop unique value propositions to carve out a sustainable market share.

Alternative Options for 3D Printing

Other Good Choices in the Market

While the disappearance of Smart International may have disappointed Kodak Portrait 3D printer users, there are other good choices available in the 3D printing market. Manufacturers such as Prusa Research, Formlabs, and LulzBot offer a wide range of options across different price points and performance levels. These alternatives provide users with the opportunity to explore new technologies, features, and capabilities that may suit their specific needs and preferences.

Considerations for Choosing a New 3D Printer

When considering a new 3D printer, there are several factors that users should take into account. These factors include the intended use of the printer, the desired level of performance and functionality, the available budget, and the required compatibility with materials and software. By carefully assessing these considerations and conducting thorough research, users can make an informed decision and choose a 3D printer that best meets their needs and requirements.

Artec 3D Partners with Handicap International

Assistance to NGO in Rwanda

In a positive development in the 3D printing industry, Artec 3D has partnered with Handicap International to enhance prosthetic production in Rwanda. Handicap International is an NGO that works with handicapped patients, providing them with access to affordable and customized prosthetics. Through their partnership, Artec 3D aims to leverage their advanced 3D scanning and printing technologies to improve the production process and increase the availability of prosthetics to those in need.

Enhancement of Prosthetic Production

The partnership between Artec 3D and Handicap International signifies the potential of 3D printing in revolutionizing the field of prosthetic production. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, such as 3D scanning and printing, it becomes possible to create customized prosthetics that are both functional and comfortable for the individual recipients. This collaboration highlights the social impact that 3D printing can have, particularly in providing affordable and accessible solutions for individuals with physical disabilities.

Exploring 3D Printing in Furniture Production

Viability of 3D Printing in Furniture

The furniture production industry has shown growing interest in the potential of 3D printing as a viable manufacturing technique. While traditional methods still dominate the industry, 3D printing offers unique advantages that make it an attractive alternative. With advancements in materials, such as high-performance polymers, and the ability to create complex and customizable designs, 3D printing presents opportunities for innovation and efficiency in furniture production.

Potential Benefits and Challenges

The adoption of 3D printing in furniture production comes with both benefits and challenges. Some potential benefits include reduced material waste, increased design freedom, and the ability to create intricate and lightweight structures. However, challenges persist, such as the limitations of current print volumes, slower production speeds compared to traditional methods, and the need for further material development. Overcoming these challenges is crucial to fully realize the potential of 3D printing in the furniture industry.

Conclusion

The rise and fall of Smart International in the 3D printer manufacturing industry provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by smaller manufacturers in a competitive market. The disappearance of the company has presented challenges for Kodak Portrait 3D printer users, highlighting the importance of ongoing support and accessible software. Despite these challenges, alternative options exist in the market, offering users the chance to explore new technologies and features. The partnership between Artec 3D and Handicap International demonstrates the positive social impact that 3D printing can have, particularly in improving access to prosthetics. Finally, the exploration of 3D printing in furniture production highlights the potential benefits and challenges of adopting this technology in traditional manufacturing processes. While there are still hurdles to overcome, the future of 3D printing in various industries remains promising.

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