Feature suggestion: Integrate AI into the forum for thread summary

Some threads are too long to read through. I would suggest ChatGPT be integrated to provide a summary, similar to what a Google’s AI Overview does.

For example, here is the summary that I got as of now on the long thread of Speculation About New Printer Announcement. The summary may or may not be perfect, but at least readers can get some main ideas on the opinions with little effort.

Another use of the AI integrate will be to provide a summary when a user does a search on the forum, such as a search for tips for photo or printing issues. An answer similar to the Google AI Overview will show up to provide a summary on the topic, on top of relevant threads.

[From ChatGPT]

Here are the main points from the forum thread about speculation on new Bambu Lab printer announcements:

•	Users speculate about Bambu Lab possibly introducing a new printer model soon.
•	Several users believe an upgrade or “pro” version of the existing model is likely.
•	There’s a consensus that an affordable, entry-level printer might broaden Bambu Lab’s customer base.
•	Some users think new accessories or add-ons might be released instead of a completely new printer.
•	Enthusiasts discuss the potential for a larger print volume in a new model.
•	Modular or customizable printers are seen as a desirable direction.
•	Heated chamber enhancements are a popular suggestion among users.
•	Many users suggest adding multi-material printing capabilities.
•	Improved cooling and ventilation features are desired for better print quality.
•	Speculation includes potential updates to the AMS (Automatic Material System).
•	Suggestions for quieter operation are popular.
•	Users discuss the possibility of improved software integration.
•	Some speculate about enhanced Wi-Fi or connectivity options.
•	A few users think a desktop-sized printer could appeal to a new market.
•	Enhanced safety features, especially for PLA and ABS, are commonly requested.
•	Users also hope for upgrades to print speed without quality loss.
•	Many would like better maintenance features, such as easier access to internals.
•	The possibility of Bambu Lab focusing on eco-friendly, sustainable materials is mentioned.
•	Some users think the announcement may be postponed to maximize current model sales.
•	Overall, excitement and curiosity are high, with users anticipating significant updates.

These points capture the general ideas and predictions from the forum discussion.

I find that summary to be about as useful as a horoscope, probably because it is just summarizing hopes and dreams.

Can AI provide a summary that resolves a specific issue, such as Skew compensation in the Bambu X1C Firmware?

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I asked for a summary of the main opinions expressed in that thread, using no more than 20 bullet points. It gave me what I wanted to know. So I stopped there.

I could have asked for a summary including more details. Or I could have asked for more detail on a specific opinion. For example, asking for more details on the opions about enhanced safety features, especially for PLA and ABS, which is one of the bullet points, I got the following:

[From ChatGPT]
Here are the expanded opinions regarding enhanced safety features for Bambu Lab printers, particularly for PLA and ABS materials, as discussed on the forum:

  • Air Filtration and Ventilation: Users emphasize the importance of effective air filtration, particularly with ABS, which can release harmful fumes. Suggestions include a built-in HEPA or carbon filter to minimize exposure to potentially toxic particles and improve indoor air quality.

  • Enclosed Print Chambers: Many believe an enclosed chamber design would add a layer of safety by containing fumes. This is especially relevant for ABS and other high-temperature materials that produce more emissions.

  • Temperature Regulation: Concerns about the heat generated during printing have led to suggestions for better thermal regulation, especially to prevent overheating, which can be a fire hazard in unattended printing scenarios.

  • Smoke and Fire Detectors: Some users suggest integrating smoke or temperature sensors directly into the printer. These could trigger an emergency shutdown if a fire risk or excessive temperature is detected.

  • Improved Material Handling for Safety: Handling ABS and other high-temperature materials safely is another common point. Users recommend clearer labeling and safe handling instructions on printer screens or packaging.

  • Auto-Shutdown Features: There’s interest in a feature that would automatically shut off the printer if irregular activity, overheating, or a fire hazard is detected.

  • Child-Safe Features: With more 3D printers entering homes, users express concerns about child safety. Suggestions include child-safe locks on the printer or better shielding for hot areas.

  • VOC Sensors: Given the potential for volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions during printing, some users think adding a VOC sensor that can alert users of poor air quality would enhance safety.

These suggestions aim to make the printers more user-friendly and safer, especially for hobbyists who may not have ventilation setups suitable for intensive PLA or ABS printing.

Asking for a summary using no more than 20 bullet points on the thread about skew compensation got the following:

[From ChatGPT]
The forum thread on skew compensation in the Bambu X1C firmware covers the following key topics:

  • Understanding Skew Issues: Users discuss the impact of skew on print accuracy, particularly in the XY plane.

  • G-code M1005 Usage: The command M1005 is identified as a method to adjust skew parameters within the printer’s firmware.

  • Measurement Techniques: Various methods for measuring skew are shared, including the use of test prints and precise measurements of diagonals and sides.

  • Calculation of Skew Factors: Formulas and spreadsheets are provided to calculate the necessary correction factors based on measurements.

  • Application of Corrections: Guidance is offered on applying calculated skew corrections using the M1005 command with appropriate parameters.

  • Persistence of Settings: Challenges with retaining skew settings after power cycles are discussed, with suggestions to include correction commands in the start G-code.

  • Firmware Limitations: Users note that current firmware may not support skew compensation in the XZ and YZ planes.

  • Community Tools: Members share tools, such as spreadsheets and calculators, to assist others in determining and applying skew corrections.

  • Accuracy of Measurements: The importance of precise measurements is emphasized to ensure effective skew compensation.

  • Firmware Updates: Speculation exists about future firmware updates potentially addressing skew compensation more comprehensively.

  • User Experiences: Individuals share their experiences with applying skew corrections, including successes and ongoing challenges.

  • Technical Discussions: In-depth discussions occur regarding the mathematical and technical aspects of skew correction.

  • Support Documentation: References are made to official Bambu Lab documentation and support materials related to skew compensation.

  • Community Collaboration: The thread highlights a collaborative effort among users to solve skew issues through shared knowledge and resources.

  • Potential for Automation: Some users express interest in automated skew detection and correction features in future printer models or firmware updates.

  • Impact on Print Quality: The direct correlation between skew correction and improved print quality is a recurring theme.

  • Hardware Adjustments: Discussions include whether physical adjustments to the printer hardware could complement firmware-based skew corrections.

  • Feedback to Manufacturer: Users consider providing collective feedback to Bambu Lab to encourage enhancements in skew compensation features.

  • Alternative Solutions: Exploration of third-party software or firmware modifications as potential solutions for skew issues is mentioned.

  • Educational Resources: The thread serves as an educational resource for users seeking to understand and address skew in 3D printing.

These points encapsulate the primary discussions and insights shared by the community regarding skew compensation in the Bambu X1C firmware.

Under these bullet points, there is also a button for ‘Sources’. Click at the button shows a list of links. Here’s a screenshot:

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Thank you for seeing what ChatGPT could make of the skew topic. I’ve been a bit skeptical about AI in general and have not taken the time to learn how to use it.

I was hoping that AI could sort the wheat from the chaff and produce a list of steps to measure and adjust for skew. Print this model, measure here, record results in this spreadsheet, add this g-code, etc.

Instead, it describes what happened in the thread (references are made, discussions occur, individuals share, etc.).

No judgements are made, no conclusions presented. That may be just as well, and AI may be useful to preview a topic before doing a deep dive and taking the time to find the actual facts.

I didnt’ read your question carefully so I asked for a summary of what are discussed on the thread. My fault, not ChatGPT’s :slight_smile:

Below is what I got asking for a list of steps to measure and adjust for skew, based on what are expressed in that thread.

One can also ask for advices on how to do skew compensation without referring to the thread in the forum. In that case, the AI will provide answers based on whatever articles or docs that it has been trained on, and not be specific on X1c firmware or what were said on the thread.

Bambu Lab can also fine tune and make a custom GPT using documents that they have on adjusting skew compensation. The custom GPT can provide a even better response because the solution will be from BL and not relied entriely on what are said in the thread which can potentially contain incorrect information or bad advices.

[From ChatGPT. This is the default. I didnt ask for more or less detail]

Here’s a step-by-step guide to measure and adjust for skew in a Bambu X1C printer based on the forum discussions:

  1. Prepare the Printer:
    Make sure your printer is calibrated and has the latest firmware version to ensure it recognizes the necessary commands for skew adjustments.

  2. Print a Test Pattern:
    Print a square or rectangle test pattern that has known dimensions (e.g., 100mm x 100mm) to check for any skew. Ensure the print surface is level, as an uneven bed can affect measurements.

  3. Measure Diagonals:
    Using a caliper or a precise ruler, measure the diagonals of the printed square or rectangle. If the diagonals are equal, your print is likely square. If they differ, there is a skew.

  4. Calculate the Skew Angle:
    Calculate the skew angle based on the difference in diagonal measurements. Many users provide tools like spreadsheets to make this calculation easier. Alternatively, the angle (θ) can be approximated if you know the difference between the diagonals and the length of the sides.

  5. Determine Correction Values:
    Based on the skew angle, calculate the correction values needed. These corrections will adjust the XY plane by the angle identified in your measurements. Some users recommend spreadsheets or online tools to simplify this calculation.

  6. Input the Skew Correction Command (M1005):
    On your printer’s interface or through connected software, input the command M1005 followed by the skew correction values. This command allows you to specify X and Y skew corrections.

    • Example format: M1005 X<angle_value> Y<angle_value>
  7. Apply Corrections via Start G-code (Optional):
    Since some users report issues with settings not being retained after power cycles, you can add the skew correction M1005 command in your slicer’s start G-code. This ensures the printer applies the correction at the start of each print.

  8. Print Another Test Pattern:
    Reprint the test pattern with the skew correction applied and re-measure the diagonals. Check if the diagonals are now equal to confirm the skew correction’s effectiveness.

  9. Refine as Needed:
    If the diagonals are still not equal, adjust the skew correction values slightly and reapply the M1005 command. Repeat the printing and measuring process until the skew is minimized or eliminated.

  10. Document the Settings:
    Record your final skew correction values and setup. This documentation will make it easier to reapply or reference adjustments if needed in the future.

Following these steps should help you measure and adjust for skew on the Bambu X1C, resulting in more accurate prints.

LLMs like chat GPT will either piss you off, or straight up shock you with how impressive they can be. Proper prompting helps a lot. I have actually successfully shown GPT a failed print and had it correctly diagnose it which was wild.