Category: 3D printing

  • Custom Steam Deck Case Transforms Handheld into Mobile Workstation

    Custom Steam Deck Case Transforms Handheld into Mobile Workstation

    Most handheld devices aren’t designed for productivity. The Legion Go, which features detachable controllers, could potentially serve as a makeshift workstation, but that’s the charm of PCs. Users often discover applications that the creators never envisioned.

    Productivity Limitations of the Steam Deck

    The Steam Deck isn’t the best choice for heavy work tasks. If you find yourself bringing along a separate keyboard and mouse, you might as well just take a laptop instead. There’s no kickstand, and trying to manage a 10,000-line spreadsheet isn’t exactly enjoyable, especially on the Deck’s modest 800p display. However, the community hasn’t let that stop them. The Deck can definitely handle a few emails and offers much more once you dive into the extensive library of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) that’s accessible on Linux.

    A Handy 3D-Printed Solution

    If you’re not keen on lugging around multiple gadgets, you can use Natter_LT to 3D print your own Steam Deck “Play&Work” case for just $9.25.

    This case has some strong Steam Punk aesthetics, which only adds to its appeal. It includes several clever features, like the ability to easily insert a standard Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s (you can find this on Amazon) and detach it. It also has cutouts for all necessary ports and buttons, a handle for transport, and a built-in kickstand that opens up for air circulation around the Steam Deck’s vents. When it’s closed, the entire product is quite similar in size to the case that Valve provides.

    Great Value for 3D Printing Enthusiasts

    If you have access to a 3D printer with a minimum bed size of 300mm squared, spending $9.25 on the CAD files seems like an excellent deal for crafting the ultimate portable gaming and mobile office solution. If only we could create something similar for those who don’t own a Steam Deck.

    Source:
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  • Creality Hi Combo: Multicolor 3D Printer with 16 Filament Support

    Creality Hi Combo: Multicolor 3D Printer with 16 Filament Support

    Creality has been quite busy lately, introducing a brand new 3D printer called the Hi Combo. At the moment, it isn’t available for purchase, but those interested can sign up for alerts when it becomes in stock. The Hi Combo is officially priced at $469 and comes with one CFS module that can accommodate four filaments. If you just want the printer without the module, it will cost $299. For local pricing details, you can visit the company’s website.

    Versatile Printing Capabilities

    maximum printing speed of 500 mm/s

    User-Friendly Features

    Out of the box, the Hi Combo 3D printer is 95% preassembled, making it easier for users to get started. It includes a variety of features such as a 3.2-inch touchscreen, a camera for monitoring prints, compatibility with the Creality Cloud app, Wi-Fi control, and automatic leveling capabilities.

    Source: Link


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  • FLSUN T1 Pro: Revolutionizing 3D Print Farm Speed and Support

    FLSUN T1 Pro: Revolutionizing 3D Print Farm Speed and Support

    3D printing is popular among both hobbyists and professionals. Setting up and configuring a single 3D printer can be simple, but when it comes to creating a 3D printing farm and managing multiple printers for greater output, it can become quite complicated.

    Challenges in Scaling Up

    Beyond just printer setup, things like efficiency, upkeep, and other expenses can make expanding 3D printing operations tough.

    In September 2024, FLSUN introduced the T1 Pro, which aims to tackle these issues head-on.

    Impressive Speed and Output

    The FLSUN T1 Pro boasts a peak speed of 1,000 mm/s and an acceleration of 30,000 mm/s². This speed is twice that of conventional 3D printers, allowing farm managers to operate with only half as many printers while still reaching the same production targets.

    To give a clearer picture, the T1 Pro can produce 8 pieces of a 30 cm articulated dragon model in just 8 hours and 24 minutes. In contrast, other printers usually take more than 17 hours to accomplish the same task. So, each T1 Pro can churn out 22 of these designs in a single day, compared to just 11 from rival models.

    Cost Efficiency in Printing Farms

    In a farm setup, 50 FLSUN T1 Pro printers can equal the output of 100 typical printers, resulting in significant savings in both time and cost. With FLSUN’s attractive promotional pricing on the T1 Pro, businesses can enjoy even greater cost benefits, which aids in faster recovery of their investments.

    However, speed isn’t the only factor at play. The T1 Pro delivers high efficiency even when printing larger models. Where traditional 3D printers may take over 4.5 hours to print a 45 cm dragon, the T1 Pro can accomplish the same task in around 2 hours. Its delta structure is especially beneficial for curved and circular designs.

    FLSUN’s Commitment to Reliability

    FLSUN is a favored option for businesses focusing on scalability and dependability regarding their 3D printing capabilities. The company provides a wide range of configuration choices for farms, accommodating setups from 10 to 1,000 printers.

    For those purchasing more than 100 printers, there are flexible payment options and discounts on vital accessories like nozzles and print platforms.

    FLSUN ensures that printing farms experience minimal downtime with its quick-swap repair services and the availability of backup machines. Additionally, they offer thorough maintenance training for operators along with outstanding after-sales support, which includes personalized installation, platform setup, adjustments, and troubleshooting. This renowned after-sales service guarantees peace of mind and optimal production levels.

    With its cutting-edge algorithms, impressive speed, and low noise levels, the FLSUN T1 Pro is ideal for 3D printing farms of all sizes. Some key features of the T1 Pro are:

    Source: Link


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  • PETFusion 2.0: Convert Plastic Bottles to 3D Printing Filament

    PETFusion 2.0: Convert Plastic Bottles to 3D Printing Filament

    If you take a closer look at plastic bottles and the filament used in 3D printing, it might not be obvious at first glance, but both utilize PET as their main material. The PETFusion 2.0, a device aimed at recycling PET bottles, is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter. A unique feature of this crowdfunding initiative is that backers will not receive the physical PETFusion 2.0 machine, but instead, they will get access to the STL files needed to create the machine themselves, assuming they already have a 3D printer.

    Support Options and Benefits

    Depending on how much supporters contribute, they will receive not just the print files, but also a list of parts that can’t be printed with a 3D printer, detailed instructions, and personalized assistance. There’s even an option for a commercial license, which allows backers to produce and sell the PETFusion 2.0 commercially. For a donation of $39, users gain access to the instructions. Given that version 2.0 of the PETFusion is already available, as shown in the shared videos, the financial risk for backers appears to be fairly minimal.

    Filament Creation Process

    To create filament from a plastic bottle, it’s crucial that the PET bottle is clean and devoid of any labels. The bottle is sliced into strips, which are then heated and printed through a hotend with a 1.75 millimeter diameter. As the filament is being made, it goes through an ink-based colorizer that adds color to the filament, as the name indicates. A filament welder is also included, allowing users to connect shorter lengths of filament together easily, which is great for larger 3D printing tasks. Overall, the PETFusion 2.0 aims to be a comprehensive machine that integrates cutting, extrusion, spooling, and welding functionalities.

    Closing Thoughts

    In conclusion, the PETFusion 2.0 is an innovative solution for recycling PET bottles into usable filament for 3D printing. With its unique crowdfunding model and range of support options, it provides an exciting opportunity for 3D printing enthusiasts. The combination of easy-to-follow instructions and the ability to produce filament from recycled materials makes it a standout project on Kickstarter.

    Source: Link

  • Kobra S1 Combo: New Enclosed 3D Printer with Multi-Filament Support

    Kobra S1 Combo: New Enclosed 3D Printer with Multi-Filament Support

    Anycubic is gearing up to launch a fresh 3D printer. The Kobra S1 Combo has already been presented at a trade event, but it’s expected to hit the market early next year, with a possible release date of 2 January. The company plans to reveal additional details before Christmas, but there are not many questions left unanswered, particularly about the pricing.

    Design Differences

    The Kobra S1 Combo shares similarities with the Kobra 3 Max, yet there are notable design variances. Unlike the Kobra 3 Max, the Kobra S1 features an enclosed design, which protects the printing area from disruptive air currents, potentially enhancing the quality of prints. However, this build chamber doesn’t have active heating; it depends on the warmth generated by the print head and the heated bed, which can reach temperatures of up to 120°C (248°F). The dimensions of the build volume are 250 x 250 x 250 mm (9.8 x 9.8 x 9.8 in).

    Multicolour Features

    Equipped with multicolour capabilities, the Kobra S1 Combo is quite similar to the Kobra 3 Max in many ways. For example, both models come with a single print head. When changing filament, the user must first cut the current filament, then load the new one, and extrude a set amount of the new filament before continuing the print job. The Kobra S1 Combo can work with up to two ACE Pro units, each capable of holding four filament spools. If you’re looking for something else, you might want to check out the Creality K2 Plus, which is a more expensive option available at the moment.

    Conclusion

    Anycubic is clearly excited about this new addition to their lineup, and it will be interesting to see how it performs once it hits the shelves. Sam Prentice from The Realm has hinted that more updates are on the way, and fans are eagerly anticipating the final details.

    Source: Link

  • Kobra 3 Max Combo: Affordable 3D Printer with Large Print Volume

    Kobra 3 Max Combo: Affordable 3D Printer with Large Print Volume

    The Anycube Kobra 3 Max Combo is now available for preorder. Currently, the price is set at US$599 but will rise to US$699 in the near future. Starting from February 21, the printer will retail for its official launch price of US$999. This model supports up to eight different filaments, allowing users to create prints with various colors and materials. However, since the Kobra 3 Max utilizes a single print head, users will need to cut the filament during changes. The Ace Pro storage boxes that come with it can hold four filament spools each and include an automatic drying function to maintain the quality of the materials. They can also recognize two spools of the same material and color, enabling the printing of large objects without the need for mid-print filament changes.

    Large Print Capacity

    With a substantial print volume of 420 x 450 x 500 mm (around 16.5 x 17.7 x 19.7 in), this printer can manage large models easily. The recommended print speed is 300 mm/s, but the Kobra 3 Max can achieve speeds up to 600 mm/s if quality isn’t the primary concern. It supports 0.4 mm filaments as standard, and both the nozzle and heated bed can reach temperatures of 300°C (572°F) and 90°C (194°F), respectively. Being an open 3D printer, it’s crucial to keep it away from strong winds to avoid any potential negative effects on the printing outcome. The printer’s Y- and Z-axes are operated by two motors each. Additionally, the Kobra 3 Max comes with a 4.3-inch touchscreen and offers Wi-Fi connectivity through an app. An optional camera can be added for detecting filament stripping.

    Limited Time Offer

    This information is accurate at the time of writing, but it’s important to note that the offer may be limited in duration or quantity. All details and prices are subject to change at any time.

    Source: Link


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  • Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra Now Available at Micro Center Stores

    Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra Now Available at Micro Center Stores

    The Mars 5 Ultra is currently priced at $300.99 on Amazon. For those who want to try out the 3D printer before making a purchase, there’s good news. A high-speed resin extruder that supports up to 9K resolution will soon be available at a Micro Center store nearby.

    New Additions to Micro Center

    Alongside the Mars 5 Ultra, shoppers will find the Saturn 4 Ultra and the Neptune 4 Plus FDM printer available at the 28-store chain throughout the United States. Additionally, the larger Neptune 4 Max will be added to this selection, rounding out Micro Center’s new line of Elegoo products.

    Expanding Accessibility

    Since its founding in 2015, Elegoo has mainly operated online, but they view partnerships with retailers like Micro Center as "a key step" towards reaching more 3D printing fans in the US, as stated by sales director Chris Liu.

    Elegoo printers can also be found at Canada Computers & Electronics, which has 42 locations across the country.

    Source: Link

  • Anycubic Photon Mono M7 Max: Fast Ultra-Resin 3D Printer Preview

    Anycubic Photon Mono M7 Max: Fast Ultra-Resin 3D Printer Preview

    The Anycubic Photon Mono M7 Max features the same cutting-edge LighTurbo 3.0 light source as its Pro version, which is designed for its monochrome 7K display. Additionally, it incorporates a Dynamic Temperature Control Vat that maintains the resin temperature between 25 and 40 degrees Celsius. This model is currently priced at $699.99 on Amazon.

    Improved Print Area

    In contrast to the Pro model, the M7 Max offers a substantial print area of 14.7 liters, representing a 72% increase in size. It is capable of producing layers as thin as 0.05 millimeters (mm), compared to the Pro’s minimum of 0.15mm. The M7 Max also impresses with a printing speed of 31 millimeters per hour (mm/h), notably faster than the roughly 12mm/h found in similar 3D printers, as claimed by Anycubic.

    Enhanced Features

    The M7 Max is equipped with Intelligent Release Control 2.0, facilitating easier model removal. Furthermore, it features an advanced Resin Recycling option that tilts the print bed by 5 degrees at the conclusion of a print job, allowing excess resin to flow back into the vat instead of being wasted elsewhere.

    Pre-Order Information

    Anycubic has revealed that the Photon Mono M7 Max will be available for pre-order at a yet-to-be-disclosed discount ranging from $100 to $180 off its regular price of $899. This promotional offer will be accessible from November 8 to November 26, 2024.

  • Create Cute 3D Printable Characters with Bambu Lab’s PrintMon Maker

    Create Cute 3D Printable Characters with Bambu Lab’s PrintMon Maker

    Bambu Lab has consistently focused on making 3D printing more approachable and popular for a broader audience. They achieve this with user-friendly 3D printers and the MakerWorld platform, which allows for sharing 3D models publicly. Recently, they introduced PrintMon Maker, a fresh tool that can transform a text prompt or an image into a colorful, Pokemon-like 3D character that can be printed as a fun personalized desk toy.

    PrintMon Maker Launch

    Initially launched in beta back in August, PrintMon Maker is now available for all users on the MakerWorld platform. The process begins with either a text input or an image, and from there, the generative AI model creates a 2D image. Users can request as many retries as they want, or if they find a character they like, they can ‘hatch’ the 2D image into a 3D model. This final step costs 10 MakerLab credits, which you can earn by engaging with the platform.

    Customization Options

    After the model is ‘hatched’, you can make some basic adjustments to your PrintMon, such as choosing between four, eight, or twelve colors for printing, and selecting the specific colors. You can also personalize the character’s eyes and add a base for it to stand on. Not using the slogan “Gotta hatch ’em all” is a bit of a letdown, but it might be wise, especially considering the ongoing lawsuit between Nintendo and Palworld.

    The finished model can be downloaded as an OBJ file or opened directly in the Bambu Studio software. While there are other similar services like Meshy AI and 3D AI Studio, PrintMon Maker is designed to help users quickly and easily reach the printing phase, even if they lack expertise in 3D printing or modeling.

    Other Modeling Tools

    Bambu Lab offers a variety of easy-to-use modeling tools worth exploring in the MakerLab section of MakerWorld. These tools include Pixel Puzzle Maker, Image to Keychain, Make My Sign, Make My Lithophane, and others.

  • YouTuber 3D-Prints Rideable Star Wars AT-AT Model

    YouTuber 3D-Prints Rideable Star Wars AT-AT Model

    2 meters tall, with a speed of about 0.06 km/h, and strong enough to support a human, the AT-AT replica created by James Bruton is a dream come true for Star Wars enthusiasts. The core of this project is a 3D printer, which Bruton utilized to manufacture most of the components himself. Alongside the printed pieces, the design incorporates aluminum profiles, engines, and electronic parts.

    Design Modifications

    Bruton’s version of the AT-AT does not perfectly match the original design. The robot’s knees are positioned outward, which is a departure from the film’s design but provides essential stability. The legs are powered by electric motors, which are connected via an Ethernet cable and can be controlled remotely.

    Precision Control

    To accurately track the position of the legs, Bruton has included a potentiometer in each leg. This device measures resistance and sends vital information back to the central control system about the leg’s position. This feature allows the AT-AT to maintain a specific movement pattern without losing balance.

    Project Origins

    The journey began with a small, remote-controlled AT-AT, which served as the foundation for this larger endeavor. The first YouTube video showcases the template and documents the assembly process leading up to the completion of the legs.

    In the follow-up video, Bruton, dressed as a stormtrooper, demonstrates and tests the 3D-printed AT-AT in a parking lot. If the AT-ATs from "The Empire Strikes Back" had displayed this kind of speed, the outcome for the Galactic Empire would have been quite different. Nevertheless, the robot successfully carried Bruton, marking the experiment as a triumph.

    For those interested in creating their own AT-AT, Bruton has made the CAD and code files available on GitHub for both the smaller and larger versions.