Multi-print bed for 3D printers

Problem

Solution

Starting from scratch, the project was completed in 2 months and has a patent-pending to it. Each part of the assembly has been self-designed including the standalone electrical subsystem. The project was very well conceived by the 3D printing community and I even received pre-orders from some local 3D printing services.

Materials: PLA, Stainless steel, Aluminium, polycarbonate sheet

Fabrication methods: 3D printing, Metal machining

The Multi-print bed improves 3D printing workflow and saves time, effort, and energy by introducing the concept of '3D Print-List'.

Process

The process started with ideating on concepts to vacate the print bed. I had ideas like using replaceable sheets that can be flexed to remove the 3D print or attaching an automated claw right next to the nozzle to clear the print Bed or using a conveyor based print bed that collects the 3D print in a tray. I chose the conveyor option because of its ease of implementation and modularity.

Step 1: Sketching and defining the product architecture

flexbed_page2_draft3_pgr_trim_experiment

Step 2: Defining the assembly through CAD

Step 3: 3D printing and machining the physical build

Step 4: Designing a shield for the electrical subsytem

Step 5: Making a complete 3D printer for testing

Product

Product:

The Multiprint bed allows users to create a print list. Every time a 3D print is completed the print bed axis reaches home position and triggers the conveyor limit switch. The conveyor starts moving and the completed 3D print falls in a bucket. The vacated bed is now ready for the next 3D print in the queue.

Final Prototype

First test with paper as conveyor