The multi-axis method is superior because there’s no limit to the incline angle. There are two main methods to do this: using three axes (like most 3D printers) or using a multi-axis setup. I have particular types of filament that perform best when 3D printed with continuous extrusion, so I looked for options for non-planar 3D printing. For instance, the structural strength of 3D printed objects is weak in the vertical direction (inter-layer) compared to the horizontal direction (intra-layer). While this significantly simplifies the fabrication process, the layered structure has clear downsides that limit the usability of 3D printed objects. Non-planar TPU surface layers can add texture, chemical resistance, anti-slip properties, and so on.įreddie Hong, who initiated the Open5x project as part of his PhD research, has kindly given us some insider information:Īll3DP: What inspired you to create Open5x?įH: Conventional 3D printed objects have a planar construction where the material is deposited layer-upon-layer. Conductive filaments can be extruded to non-planar surfaces while maintaining good electrical continuity. Supportless 3D printing: Multi-axis 3D printing doesn’t need support material, which means less material waste, higher-quality surface finishes, and better-quality fine features which aren’t damaged by support material removal.įunctional materials: A multi-axis machine can extrude layers that conform to a surface, giving better performance. Enhanced part strength makes multi-axis 3D printing a viable option for 3D printed wearable prosthetics, bridge structures, and many more practical things.
Workflow limitations aside, 5-axis 3D printing opens up some pretty interesting applications, including:Įnhanced object structure: A perpendicular extrusion direction means layers are cross-laminated, so 3D printed items can withstand multi-directional load. If there’s sufficient interest in the project, it’s within the realms of possibility for the community to create an open-source implementation for 5-axis slicing – but we’re not there yet.
#PRUSA SLICER NON PLANAR SOFTWARE#
While the algorithm used is freely available, the software to run it requires a paid license to (legally) use. A non-planar slicing algorithm using Grasshopper – a visual programming language included in Rhino CAD software – was developed to overcome this issue. The slicing workflow is a little trickier here: conventional slicing software will only slice in planar layers. Everything is controlled by Duet3D electronics running on RepRap Firmware. The open-source hardware modifies a Prusa Research i3 3D printer with extra motors, some common hardware, and additional 3D printed parts. Open5x has been developed by Freddie Hong, Borut Lampret, Steve Hodges Connor Myant, and David Boyle at the Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London.
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