The Connex350 is one of the only 3D printers in the world capable of printing several materials with different mechanical and physical properties simultaneously.

Rehovot, Israel – Objet Geometries has announced that the leading social product development company Quirky has acquired one of the world’s most robust 3D printers: Objet’s Connex350.

The system will serve a vital role at Quirky, which brings one new product from sketch to store each week through its online collaborative platform.

Quirky’s product development process encompasses every step – from naming and logo creation to industrial design – and relies heavily on accurate, quality prototypes to conceive, improve and finalize designs for potential manufacture.

The Objet system, roughly the size of a copy machine, was delivered by crane on May 10th, closing down a stretch of Broadway in New York City.

“We cannot overstate the impact this stellar machine will have on our business,” says Ben Kaufman, CEO and Founder of Quirky.com. “Our mission is to bring awesome products to consumers and earnings to our community in record time. Our new Connex350 will make this all happen even faster.”

Kaufman adds that since its launch in June 2009, Quirky has brought 13 products to market – a feat once considered impossible. “Now with the Connex350, there is no telling what we can do,” he says. “Bring it on.”

Launched in 2009, the Connex350 is one of the only 3D printers in the world capable of printing several materials with different mechanical and physical properties simultaneously.

The other system offering these capabilities is Objet’s Connex500, unveiled in 2007. The printers’ patented PolyJet Matrix technology jets materials in ultra-thin layers, immediately curing each layer with UV light – a process which yields models that closely emulate the look, feel and function of an exceptionally wide variety of end products.

In addition, the systems allow users to create composite materials that have pre-set combinations of mechanical properties, also a first for the industry. This offers unprecedented material options for 3D printed models.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with such an innovative organization that, like Objet, is changing the way goods are brought to market,” says Gilad Gans, Executive Vice President of Objet Geometries. “This venture demonstrates how 3D printing is moving beyond the Fortune 500 list, becoming of greater relevance to mid and small businesses, and everyday consumers.”

For more information visit www.objet.com and www.quirky.com