New Extruder, blocks, &?

[msurunner 2]

What's with the new extruder on the UM2? Direct drive from the stepper? Are we getting an upgrade option? Also looks like the blocks were changed and the center section for the print head as well... Can we get some more detailed pics?????

 

[nick-foley 4]

Spent a bunch of time checking it out at Maker Faire today. It's an awesome machine, but I'd say most of the improvements are cosmetic or very slightly incremental... apart from the Heated bed. Part quality didn't seem to be any higher than the already high UM1 standard. The purely snap-fit for the 6mm axles blocks seem like a useful improvement that hasn't been introduced as a user upgrade to the UM1, and I may integrate that feature into some of the XY blocks I've designed.

Anyway, I didn't walk away feeling like I was missing anything, having upgraded my UM1's extensively. If I were to buy a UM right now, it would absolutely the UM1, as a kit.

 

[gr5 1,025]

Well Nick, not having to level is a major improvement to me. I am very good at it and I still hate it.

Regarding pictures: here are pictures of some early prototypes where things were printed and not yet injection molded:

https://www.ultimaker.com/spree/uploads/19/original/presskit.zip

Here's some pics and video I took of UM2 from last Friday night:

https://www.ultimaker.com/spree/uploads/19/original/presskit.zip

More here:

https://www.igo3d.com/blog/ultimaker-2-pictures-comparison/

Some discussion here:

https://groups.google.com/forum/?hl=en#!topic/ultimaker/clvd7U3ltMs

Discussion and photos here:

https://groups.google.com/forum/?hl=en#!topic/ultimaker/HDR8FyLlMw0

There's a third fan on the print head you can't see that cools the plastic parts just above the heater. Even smaller than the 2 side fans.