Via Fabbaloo
Someone has devised a method for performing dynamic error correction on 3D printers to ensure the nozzle is always placed precisely where it should be.
The problem is one well familiar to operators of less-than-perfect desktop 3D printers. Suddenly, in mid-print, the axes seem to have shifted, and the print is ruined when the top half is 2cm to the left of where it should be.
This kind of problem results from issues in the motion control system of the 3D printer, most often from slipping belts. It can also be caused by motor problems on one of the axes, or in some cases, poorly extruded material snags the extruder as it moves by and pushes the extruder off course.
Engineer Chris Barr of Adelaide, Australia’s solution involves the use of a magnetic encoder to track motion on each axis.
Once a problem is detected, as in, the extruder isn’t where it’s supposed to be, the software automatically moves the extruder to the correct position. Don’t believe me? Watch this video, where the extruder is rudely pushed away from its intended path:
Every Thursday is #3dthursday here at Adafruit! The DIY 3D printing community has passion and dedication for making solid objects from digital models. Recently, we have noticed electronics projects integrated with 3D printed enclosures, brackets, and sculptures, so each Thursday we celebrate and highlight these bold pioneers!
Have you considered building a 3D project around an Arduino or other microcontroller? How about printing a bracket to mount your Raspberry Pi to the back of your HD monitor? And don’t forget the countless LED projects that are possible when you are modeling your projects in 3D!