ugee

Students in primary school are learning technological concepts we were never taught at their age. Knowing that, it feels normal to keep raising parents’ awareness on technologies kids can already familiarize themselves with.

With that in mind, ugee, a technology company based in China, introduced Funbox, a 3D printer built for kids.

The desktop 3D printer looks like a toy and aims to let kids create freely. “Our hope is simple. Whether it’s a scribbled doodle or an idea like “I want a cat that can fly,” Funbox turns those sparks of imagination into something kids can actually hold in their hands”, the company says in a press release.

Before you ask, one of the primary features ugee ensures is safety. The 3D printer features a fully enclosed, rounded-edge chassis paired with a 12V low-voltage DC power supply that meets strict IEC safety standards, minimizing the risk of electric shock.

Inside, an exclusive H12 HEPA filter plus activated carbon module works alongside a 6010 active exhaust fan. The manufacturer says it is the largest in its class as it enables to trap ultrafine particles and odors produced during printing.

 UL Greenguard-certified, this desktop 3D printer complies with other toy safety standards including ASTM F963-23, EN71, and EN62115.

Beyond safety, I strongly believe that what makes it a 3D printer designed for kids is that the 3D printer does not look complicated to use: it arrives already pre-assembled and only needs to be connected to a dual-brand Wi-Fi 6 and pairs with the proprietary UFun app.

With three-tiered slicing modes (fast, standard and fine), the 3D printer can adapt to everyone from preschool beginners to teen hobbyists.

Other key features include:

  • A built-in 2MP HD camera to monitor prints remotely and capture creative time-lapse videos
  • Power-loss resume and automatic filament jam detection to help reduce failed prints and cut down on day-to-day maintenance
  • An AI ShapeGen engine

Available for pre-order exclusively on the ugee website at an early-bird price of $269 (regular price $329), the package comes with 7 complimentary rolls of standard PLA filament.

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