In a collaboration between JetPack Aviation and Airwolf 3D, a lightweight jetpack with 3D parted parts makes Buzz Lightyear cosplay a distinct possibility.
Early testing of their new JB-10 jetpack showed that it will be able to achieve flights of over 10,000 feet in altitude, at speeds greater than 100 mph, and with an endurance of 10 minutes (depending on how heavy you are).
The design of the jet turbine powered backpack makes it capable of vertical takeoff and landing, but is also lightweight and compact. Meaning it can carry you thousands of feet above the ground, yet still fit in the trunk of your car.
These exciting 3D printed jetpack components have been on display at CES 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada for the past week. In a testimonial for Airwolf 3D, JetPack Aviation Lead designer Nelson Tyler said:
“We had been investigating more affordable options for rapidly prototyping our new JetPack fuel tank and teamed up with Airwolf 3D to print our tank on their AXIOM 3D printer with its large build volume.”
In order to make sure the jetpack is lightweight and compact, with crisp handling, and stable in all three axes of flight, the process of developing the JB-9 has taken many years of design, testing and redesign. This has required a LOT of prototyping. Tyler said:
“Airwolf 3D’s latest AXIOM 3D printer was the key enabling technology to allow us to rapidly prototype our new 3D Printed JetPack fuel tank prior to committing to actual tooling.”
For the 3D Printed jetpack tank, making a master pattern using foam or aluminum costs between $5,000 and $12,000. However, the advantage of using the Airwolf 3D AXIOM 3D printer was that the total cost was less than $400.
Erick Wolf, CEO and founder of Airwolf 3D said:
“We are thrilled to be working with JetPack Aviation to advance the future of transportation and proud that the AXIOM 3D printer was selected as the means to achieve JetPack’s rapid prototyping needs.”
JetPack Aviation is based in Southern California. For more information, visit their website. If you’re interested in the Airwolf 3D AXIOM, then you can check them out here.
Here’s a video of the JB-9 in action over the skies of New York city.
What do you think about the JB-10 from JetPack Aviation? Would you strap yourself in for a flight test?
License: The text of "JetPack Aviation: Take to the Skies with 3D Printed Parts" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.