Yeah I'm from Toronto, I've visited a local hacker space here (hacklab.to) several times. I saw several different 3d printers there over the course of a few visits. They inspired me to go ahead and take the plunge for myself.
From my research: it currently has not been possible to print overhangs greater than 45 degrees on models using the plastic extrusion process. I think the dual extruder allows the opportunity to incorporate a water soluble plastic material into the printing process in order to support overhangs.
Thanks for the advice, any recommendations for the most active community online? The Google Group linked at the Makerbot site seems pretty sparse, as does the Makerbot section at CNCZone.
I'm new to the 3D printing scene and I was about to order a Makerbot last week but heard they would be making a CES announcement this week. Any advice from more experienced hackers regarding whether it is worth holding out for this new model with the dual extruder?
I'm a recent alumnus of the UW Architecture program. I know the faculty there are pushing hard to incorporate emerging technologies into the core undergrad curriculum and many of the graduate students there are doing really interesting work in computational design and UX.
Additionally I can't say enough good things about the co-op program. While I was there every single one of my classmates got a placement every term at a firm within our industry. The economy was better then, but most of us had our pick when choosing what city we wanted to work in abroad. And this is on top of the compulsory term at the school's Rome studio in 4th year.