MakerBot 5th Generation 3D Printers
A fresh generation of 3 unique 3D printers from MakerBot was announced at CES 2014, and represented an enormous shift in product features for desktop 3D printers. While previous models were focused solely on a barebones approach to additive manufacturing, the new generation brought significant enhancements in user interaction and printing experience.
By incorporating novel motion control and slicer algorithms with innovative sensing technologies, the hardware was able to achieve new levels of diagnostics, metrics, and usability. Added networking connectivity and a camera allowed users to engage with equipment in ways never possible before.
The detachable printing toolhead system introduced in this platform of printers allowed for greatly expanded future development, reliability improvements, and experimentation.
The family of printers have won numerous design awards including CES Best in Show, and have shipped 100k units and counting.
3D Printer Hardware Development
As the lead electrical engineer for the Z18 prosumer printer, I faced technical challenges unique to the largest printer in the product family.
While an individual contributor, I managed systems and electrical engineering, PCBA design and compliance engineering to bring the largest printer MakerBot had ever launched to a graceful launch.
On-site wireless emissions testing and successful certification for both the MakerBot Z18...
And the flagship MakerBot Replicator.
An Engineering Leader
Post-launch of the 5th Generation 3D Printer platform, I assumed the role of Director of Electrical Engineering.
In this capacity, I oversaw sustaining engineering and gradual improvements to the full product platform. This would eventual culminate in a product refresh for the Replicator Mini and Replicator, becoming the Mini+ and Replicator+ respectively.
Looking forward, I led product architecture and hardware R&D to strategically shrink electronics assemblies and reduce print time for a future printer platform.
Responsibilities
Engineering Management and Culture Development
Electronics Design and Development
Product Definition and Architecture
CM / Supplier Coordination and Management
Quality / Manufacturing Engineering
Safety / Wireless Regulatory Compliance
R&D / Rapid Prototyping
Competitive Intelligence Analysis
Engineering Recruiting
Project Management