This is a VERY important upgrade. Look under the 'Activate' tab for the Cube3.
IMPORTANT: If there is an underscore in the name, REPLACE IT WITH A SPACE.
I have to go our now. But, on my return this evening, I will discuss the ramifications of this firmware update and how to take advantage of the new features.
In the meantime, I would make a mad dash for the site and download the update. :)
This update includes a new PURGE JETS function that promises to be useful in clearing clogs!
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Cube3 Cubify Software Update - Version 2.19 is Available
As I started the Cubify client this morning, a notice appeared announcing an update to Version 2.19.
I have not idea about all of the improvements that have been incorporated into this update. But, there is one that for those using the Cube3 in a classroom situation will be happy to see. For, the first time, I am able to control TWO (and I suppose more) Cube3 printers from my computer.
It still is not at the point where doing so is absolutely reliable or under our complete control. But, the fact that I am now able to send print jobs to two different Cube3 printers is a HUGE step forward.
Ultimately, controlling two printers should be as easy as selecting the printer from a dropdown list. We're not there yet. But, this development takes us a good way down that path.
In the current Cubify 2.19 version,, I had go down the following path to enter the second Cube3's IP manually
The fix for that should be pretty simple. The software knows it's transferring and can ignore any other actions (like refresh) until the transfer is finished. So, that should be taken care of in the next update. For now, I assume that bigger jobs may fail (longer transfer times) while small jobs may be safely transferred.
As I write this, TWO printers are happily printing away, oblivious of each other and, now that I have discovered some of my design characteristics that were inviting clogging... and avoid them... I'm confident both will complete successfully.
Cubify support and the designers on the Cubify team are listening to us.
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood. :)
I have not idea about all of the improvements that have been incorporated into this update. But, there is one that for those using the Cube3 in a classroom situation will be happy to see. For, the first time, I am able to control TWO (and I suppose more) Cube3 printers from my computer.
It still is not at the point where doing so is absolutely reliable or under our complete control. But, the fact that I am now able to send print jobs to two different Cube3 printers is a HUGE step forward.
Ultimately, controlling two printers should be as easy as selecting the printer from a dropdown list. We're not there yet. But, this development takes us a good way down that path.
In the current Cubify 2.19 version,, I had go down the following path to enter the second Cube3's IP manually
PRINT > SETTINGS > CUBE INFO > Find a Cube manuallyIt did manage to find the second printer. But, in my first attempt to send it a print job, the internal communication system switched back to the original printer before the transfer was complete. Trying a second time worked.
The fix for that should be pretty simple. The software knows it's transferring and can ignore any other actions (like refresh) until the transfer is finished. So, that should be taken care of in the next update. For now, I assume that bigger jobs may fail (longer transfer times) while small jobs may be safely transferred.
As I write this, TWO printers are happily printing away, oblivious of each other and, now that I have discovered some of my design characteristics that were inviting clogging... and avoid them... I'm confident both will complete successfully.
Cubify support and the designers on the Cubify team are listening to us.
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood. :)
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
3D Printed Cube3 Print Table Leveling Tool
Earlier there was a blog article about a paper printed table leveling gauge that was designed to help count the precise distance to turn the print table pads when leveling the Cube3 print table.
A 3D printed version has just been uploaded to the Cubify 'Design Feed" for free download. This is the DIRECT LINK.
As you can see from this image, the tool simply fits over the print table pads.
The ring without markings fits over the back/left print table mounting pad. That pad is not to be adjusted. It is the pivot point for the front/back and left/right height adjustments controlled by the left/front and back/right mounting pads.
The STL is designed so that should you desire the 'tic' marks can be printed in a 2nd color as illustrated above. Be sure to place a mark on the print table mounting pads with a permanent marker to create a dial to follow as you ake the adjustments.
This thing is super helpful. It makes the job of following the leveling directions SO much easier and more precise. The increments are in 1/16th of a turn.
A REQUEST
I create these items to make my life easier with my own 3D printers. I have no idea how helpful you feel they may be for your own 3D printing experience. If you choose to download any of the files I've uploaded please check the 'heart' so that I can see if there is any value in uploading them and what kinds of items are most appealing for Cube owners.
Thanks!
A 3D printed version has just been uploaded to the Cubify 'Design Feed" for free download. This is the DIRECT LINK.
As you can see from this image, the tool simply fits over the print table pads.
 |
| Print Table Leveling Aid (Print table pads simulated) |
The ring without markings fits over the back/left print table mounting pad. That pad is not to be adjusted. It is the pivot point for the front/back and left/right height adjustments controlled by the left/front and back/right mounting pads.
The STL is designed so that should you desire the 'tic' marks can be printed in a 2nd color as illustrated above. Be sure to place a mark on the print table mounting pads with a permanent marker to create a dial to follow as you ake the adjustments.
This thing is super helpful. It makes the job of following the leveling directions SO much easier and more precise. The increments are in 1/16th of a turn.
A REQUEST
I create these items to make my life easier with my own 3D printers. I have no idea how helpful you feel they may be for your own 3D printing experience. If you choose to download any of the files I've uploaded please check the 'heart' so that I can see if there is any value in uploading them and what kinds of items are most appealing for Cube owners.
Thanks!
Monday, February 2, 2015
My Most Successful Colors
This post is designed to catch up on some observations, etc.
Filament Color MAY matter
I wanted to report that of the colors I have been able to obtain of PLA, the least troublesome, so far, have been black and tan. That is not to definitively say that they are THE best colors; but, simply that I've had excellent results from these two colors.
I'm mindful that the colors may not be the issue at all. 3D Systems has instituted a rigorous testing program on all of their filament and it just may be that these cartridges were the first I owned under the new testing program. Whatever the reason, I am grateful.
Storing Your Filament
As I've pondered filament, more than I actually care to over the last month or so, I've been impressed that it is going to be absolutely critical that we develop a more pro-activein our care of the filament we purchase. The cartridges of the CubePro, for instance, actually have a little pocket to held a moisture reducer packet!
Both PLA and ABS deteriorate reasonably quickly in moist environments.
So, I have decided that (1) I will not open a new color unless I am ready to use it immediately and (2) I will keep all opened cartridges inside a closed plastic storage box with a sizable package of moisture absorber. The two I'm testing are DampRid and DryOut. Both are available at The Container Store. AirBoss is another option.
Print Quality of the Cube3 is Impressive
The print from the Cube3 is, by far, the best I've been able to achieve and I am not talking about printing in 70 micron layers. I'm comparing the prints at 200 microns, and quite frankly, I like my Cube 3 prints better than the CubePro prints. Of course, I get the CubePro prints considerably faster so it's a bit of an apples vs. oranges comparison.
One of the things I've noticed over the years about 3D Systems is that they are constantly improving a printer series within the same model run over time. This was true of the Cube2 and I think I see that in the Cube3 printers YouthQuest has purchased that are of more recent origin than mine. The differences are subtle; but, as much as I use all the printers, I can tell.
Multiple Cube3 Printers with Cubify Software
Aside from cartridge improvements, where I'm hoping big changes will come is in the Cubify software. It doesn't appear to handle the existence of multiple Cube3 printers all that well. So, that needs to be improved. The first step might be to give us more manual selections like the ability to specify ANY filament type and color as we build a .cube file for export no matter what color is in a connected printer. I have to unplug the printers to accomplish this now.
Remember to Check for Firmware Updates
Lastly, whatever you do, remember to check for firmware updates at least on a weekly level. The Cube teams has been great about responding to our requests for features or refinements; but, we don't benefit unless we keep our Cubes updated.
I'd like to hear which colors you've found to be the best for your printer.
Filament Color MAY matter
I wanted to report that of the colors I have been able to obtain of PLA, the least troublesome, so far, have been black and tan. That is not to definitively say that they are THE best colors; but, simply that I've had excellent results from these two colors.
I'm mindful that the colors may not be the issue at all. 3D Systems has instituted a rigorous testing program on all of their filament and it just may be that these cartridges were the first I owned under the new testing program. Whatever the reason, I am grateful.
Storing Your Filament
As I've pondered filament, more than I actually care to over the last month or so, I've been impressed that it is going to be absolutely critical that we develop a more pro-activein our care of the filament we purchase. The cartridges of the CubePro, for instance, actually have a little pocket to held a moisture reducer packet!
Both PLA and ABS deteriorate reasonably quickly in moist environments.
So, I have decided that (1) I will not open a new color unless I am ready to use it immediately and (2) I will keep all opened cartridges inside a closed plastic storage box with a sizable package of moisture absorber. The two I'm testing are DampRid and DryOut. Both are available at The Container Store. AirBoss is another option.
Print Quality of the Cube3 is Impressive
The print from the Cube3 is, by far, the best I've been able to achieve and I am not talking about printing in 70 micron layers. I'm comparing the prints at 200 microns, and quite frankly, I like my Cube 3 prints better than the CubePro prints. Of course, I get the CubePro prints considerably faster so it's a bit of an apples vs. oranges comparison.
One of the things I've noticed over the years about 3D Systems is that they are constantly improving a printer series within the same model run over time. This was true of the Cube2 and I think I see that in the Cube3 printers YouthQuest has purchased that are of more recent origin than mine. The differences are subtle; but, as much as I use all the printers, I can tell.
Multiple Cube3 Printers with Cubify Software
Aside from cartridge improvements, where I'm hoping big changes will come is in the Cubify software. It doesn't appear to handle the existence of multiple Cube3 printers all that well. So, that needs to be improved. The first step might be to give us more manual selections like the ability to specify ANY filament type and color as we build a .cube file for export no matter what color is in a connected printer. I have to unplug the printers to accomplish this now.
Remember to Check for Firmware Updates
Lastly, whatever you do, remember to check for firmware updates at least on a weekly level. The Cube teams has been great about responding to our requests for features or refinements; but, we don't benefit unless we keep our Cubes updated.
I'd like to hear which colors you've found to be the best for your printer.
New User Printable Tools for Cube 3 Owners/Users
While I am having much better luck avoiding cartridge tip clogs with the Cube3, we still aren't at the 100% clog-free goal as yet. This means opening the cartridge is sooner or later necessary.
Cube3 Top Remover Tool Kit
While not an onerous task, I got tired of juggling multiple screwdrivers in my attempts to open remove the cartridge top. So, naturally, since I have 3D printers, I decided to find a better solution. It looks like this...
The solution consists of a hub ring (cyan in the image) that fits into the cartridge hub and locks into place using the cartridge mounting hooks. Then there is a small piece (yellow) that slips into the most reasonable point to start removing the top... the lower tip storage extension. And, finally there are 'hooks' that are wedged between the top and the cartridge as you work around the cartridge using a screwdriver to separate the two. Once wedged into place the 'hook' is locked into place using the hub ring.
I plan to create a video demonstrating how it's used. But, once printed, it's pretty obvious how it works.
Cartridge Guide Set
Once the top is open, we have access to the filament while the printer is printing. But, there is one problem. The filament guide that carries the filament from the cartridge to the printer flaps in the breeze. Once again, the solution for stabilizing the filament was found in a 3D print.
Actually, two issues are addressed in this STL file. The one addressing the filament guide issue (White) attaches above the extrusion housing. One end fits over the filament guide at the top and locks into the hub area, stabilizing the filament guide as it leaves the cartridge.
But, it turns out that the filament benefits by a little stabilizer where it goes INTO the extrusion housing. So, a second small fitting (cyan) is also included that dampens the oscillation of the filament and it fits just under the extrusion housing into a little triangular area just under the housing. The lower filament and guide fit into the groove that stabilizes the filament as it enters.
Again, I hope to create a video soon showing how it is used.
Both of these tool sets are available for FREE download on the Cubify Design Feed. The best way to find them is to click on the 'Design Feed' tab in the Cubify software and then click on the magnifying glass and search with the key words "Cube3 Tools" or "CubifyFans".
NOTE
While there is an STL that allows you to print four Cartridge Guide Sets at a time, I would not do so until you see if your printer is successful printing out one. That is because in order to make things easier to lift off the plate, I have created small channels that allow water to get under the piece. But, this means the first layer is build in small blocks that seems to challenge some cartridges. If needed I can upload a version with a completely flat underside. Just let me know.
I am very happy with what these tools allow me to do. They have made my life considerably easier. I hope you find them helpful while we wait for a more permanent solution.
Cube3 Top Remover Tool Kit
While not an onerous task, I got tired of juggling multiple screwdrivers in my attempts to open remove the cartridge top. So, naturally, since I have 3D printers, I decided to find a better solution. It looks like this...
 |
| Cube3 Top Remover Kit |
The solution consists of a hub ring (cyan in the image) that fits into the cartridge hub and locks into place using the cartridge mounting hooks. Then there is a small piece (yellow) that slips into the most reasonable point to start removing the top... the lower tip storage extension. And, finally there are 'hooks' that are wedged between the top and the cartridge as you work around the cartridge using a screwdriver to separate the two. Once wedged into place the 'hook' is locked into place using the hub ring.
I plan to create a video demonstrating how it's used. But, once printed, it's pretty obvious how it works.
Cartridge Guide Set
Once the top is open, we have access to the filament while the printer is printing. But, there is one problem. The filament guide that carries the filament from the cartridge to the printer flaps in the breeze. Once again, the solution for stabilizing the filament was found in a 3D print.
 |
| Cartridge Guide Set |
Actually, two issues are addressed in this STL file. The one addressing the filament guide issue (White) attaches above the extrusion housing. One end fits over the filament guide at the top and locks into the hub area, stabilizing the filament guide as it leaves the cartridge.
But, it turns out that the filament benefits by a little stabilizer where it goes INTO the extrusion housing. So, a second small fitting (cyan) is also included that dampens the oscillation of the filament and it fits just under the extrusion housing into a little triangular area just under the housing. The lower filament and guide fit into the groove that stabilizes the filament as it enters.
Again, I hope to create a video soon showing how it is used.
Both of these tool sets are available for FREE download on the Cubify Design Feed. The best way to find them is to click on the 'Design Feed' tab in the Cubify software and then click on the magnifying glass and search with the key words "Cube3 Tools" or "CubifyFans".
NOTE
While there is an STL that allows you to print four Cartridge Guide Sets at a time, I would not do so until you see if your printer is successful printing out one. That is because in order to make things easier to lift off the plate, I have created small channels that allow water to get under the piece. But, this means the first layer is build in small blocks that seems to challenge some cartridges. If needed I can upload a version with a completely flat underside. Just let me know.
I am very happy with what these tools allow me to do. They have made my life considerably easier. I hope you find them helpful while we wait for a more permanent solution.
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
John Pennington Invited to Explore 3D Coat
As everyone that reads this blog knows, I love using Moment of Inspiration (MOI3D) for creating the 3D objects I print. And, for simple organic sculpting, I use Sculpt. But, the world of 3D design is much broader than these packages cover. So, when John Pennington, a friend, contacted me about his exploration of a voxel based 3D package called 3D Coat I became intrigued about it.
Here is their promo video... But, be warned! You might want to turn down your sound before running it! LOL!
I believe that the best time to teach others is when the struggles of tackling an application is fresh in our minds. Ultimately, we need experts to fully master an application. But, in the beginning these very experts can lose us FAR too easily. So, the fact that John is just beginning his exploration of 3D Coat is something I see as a plus because I know, from experience, how he goes about learning a new 3D design application. I met John when I was blogging about CBModelPro some years ago. We both loved the product and John went from complete novice to pushing the envelope with what could be done in a remarkably short period of time.
Consider this to be an experiment in trying to find an organic 3D application that can be used to create sculptures and pieces of art that go beyond what MOI3D or Sculpt can deliver. As with all such advanced 3D applications the learning curve could be steep. But, we'll stand back and let John beat the bushes and report back to us what he has found. If anyone can find the easiest way to get up and running it's John.
The beauty of this experiment is that John doesn't pretend to be a great and accomplished 3D artist. But, in my experience in hearing about his CBModelPro creations is that what he comes up with is always fun and enjoyable. He does it because he loves it. He loves the challenge of learning new things and is great about passing on what he learns to others.
The other benefit of John doing our groundwork for us is that the 3D Coat developers, knowing about this experiment, will be available to help him over some of the hurdles he encounters. 3D Coat is a VERY comprehensive 3D application and I suspect most of their users are equally proficient. If John can help create entry level articles with clarity, it may take some of the load off the the 3D Coat support effort. So, it should be a win-win for everyone.
While John is exploring 3D Coat, I plan to upgrade my understanding of Sculpt by adding the new Touch 3D Stylus device which YouthQuest Foundation is adding to our 3D ThinkLink Lab.
The one I can promise you. We are in for some FUN!
Welcome aboard John and 3D Coat!
P.S. If you are already familiar with 3D Coat, I'm sure John would welcome some collaboration.
Here is their promo video... But, be warned! You might want to turn down your sound before running it! LOL!
I believe that the best time to teach others is when the struggles of tackling an application is fresh in our minds. Ultimately, we need experts to fully master an application. But, in the beginning these very experts can lose us FAR too easily. So, the fact that John is just beginning his exploration of 3D Coat is something I see as a plus because I know, from experience, how he goes about learning a new 3D design application. I met John when I was blogging about CBModelPro some years ago. We both loved the product and John went from complete novice to pushing the envelope with what could be done in a remarkably short period of time.
Consider this to be an experiment in trying to find an organic 3D application that can be used to create sculptures and pieces of art that go beyond what MOI3D or Sculpt can deliver. As with all such advanced 3D applications the learning curve could be steep. But, we'll stand back and let John beat the bushes and report back to us what he has found. If anyone can find the easiest way to get up and running it's John.
The beauty of this experiment is that John doesn't pretend to be a great and accomplished 3D artist. But, in my experience in hearing about his CBModelPro creations is that what he comes up with is always fun and enjoyable. He does it because he loves it. He loves the challenge of learning new things and is great about passing on what he learns to others.
The other benefit of John doing our groundwork for us is that the 3D Coat developers, knowing about this experiment, will be available to help him over some of the hurdles he encounters. 3D Coat is a VERY comprehensive 3D application and I suspect most of their users are equally proficient. If John can help create entry level articles with clarity, it may take some of the load off the the 3D Coat support effort. So, it should be a win-win for everyone.
While John is exploring 3D Coat, I plan to upgrade my understanding of Sculpt by adding the new Touch 3D Stylus device which YouthQuest Foundation is adding to our 3D ThinkLink Lab.
The one I can promise you. We are in for some FUN!
Welcome aboard John and 3D Coat!
P.S. If you are already familiar with 3D Coat, I'm sure John would welcome some collaboration.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
A G.R.E.A.T 3D Systems Birthday Present!
I have probably written this before. But, I've been an 'early adopter' in the infancy's of many of the technologies that we take for granted in our daily lives now going back to the late 1960's when I obtained my first video recorder. In almost all of the cases, the potential for education was a primary motivation for my interest.
But, of all these technologies, I am convinced that 3D design and printing has had the most direct impact on the lives of those who are exposed to it.
It goes well beyond 3D printing itself. In fact, I doubt that many or any of the students that we reach through YouthQuest Foundation will go on to own or even use a 3D printer in the future. But, in the few short months that they have access to a 3D printer they will come to realize the power of their brain's ability to come up with unique and creative solutions. They will be better plumbers; better electricians and more energized people in whatever their chosen profession.
We use the phrase "Turn on YOUR brain!" when introducing our students to the 3D ThinkLink classes and we have seen it do just that, class after class.
But, YouthQuest, and the Youth ChalleNGe programs with which we work, are not alone in this belief. And, I was reminded of this just this morning when I received an email from Jeff Epps of the Richmond County G.R.E.A.T 3D Academy in Hamlet, N.C.
In this case, he wrote about a young man, named Ben, that DID find a position in the 3D printing industry. The cool thing for me was that Ben started his new job on my birthday. And, while I have never met Ben, he gave me one of my most memorable birthdays ever.
Just as with our students, Ben was helped to be introduced to 3D design and printing by 3D Systems through their support for programs like YouthQuest and G.R.E.A.T. But, in Ben's case, the story came full circle. I won't give away the plot. But, please enjoy this video that was sent to me by Jeff in honor of Ben's achievement.
Congratulations, Ben!!
And, thank you Jeff Epps, Richmond County Schools for making my day with this G.R.E.A.T. story!
But, special thanks to 3D Systems that help make this young man's dreams a reality.
But, of all these technologies, I am convinced that 3D design and printing has had the most direct impact on the lives of those who are exposed to it.
It goes well beyond 3D printing itself. In fact, I doubt that many or any of the students that we reach through YouthQuest Foundation will go on to own or even use a 3D printer in the future. But, in the few short months that they have access to a 3D printer they will come to realize the power of their brain's ability to come up with unique and creative solutions. They will be better plumbers; better electricians and more energized people in whatever their chosen profession.
We use the phrase "Turn on YOUR brain!" when introducing our students to the 3D ThinkLink classes and we have seen it do just that, class after class.
But, YouthQuest, and the Youth ChalleNGe programs with which we work, are not alone in this belief. And, I was reminded of this just this morning when I received an email from Jeff Epps of the Richmond County G.R.E.A.T 3D Academy in Hamlet, N.C.
In this case, he wrote about a young man, named Ben, that DID find a position in the 3D printing industry. The cool thing for me was that Ben started his new job on my birthday. And, while I have never met Ben, he gave me one of my most memorable birthdays ever.
Just as with our students, Ben was helped to be introduced to 3D design and printing by 3D Systems through their support for programs like YouthQuest and G.R.E.A.T. But, in Ben's case, the story came full circle. I won't give away the plot. But, please enjoy this video that was sent to me by Jeff in honor of Ben's achievement.
Congratulations, Ben!!
And, thank you Jeff Epps, Richmond County Schools for making my day with this G.R.E.A.T. story!
But, special thanks to 3D Systems that help make this young man's dreams a reality.
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