I want to make my A1 mini foldable so i can travel with. Are there any detailed CAD model out there? As far as I can tell nobody has done this before and it would make the A1 more apealing. Currently I intend on replacing the 6 screws that hold the z-axis extruision with a quick locking/release mechanism. This video shows the 6 screws that hold the z-axis on https://youtu.be/Wp-fAe6Qv3E .
Thanks for your help.
Honestly there are already portable 3d printers out there
You shouldn’t risk damaging an A1 mini when the products already exist.
https://www.positron3d.com/sourcing
That or get an easythreed which is worse in every way but they’re tiny and in theory can be modified:
You’re not wrong but positrons requiere special parts and cost 3x what an A1 Mini does while being less capable. I know the positron is much more compact but I can’t justify one. Anyways, thanks for the input.
Uhhh no.
If you can’t afford it then save up.
It’s ridiculous to risk breaking a thing you apparently barely are able to afford if you lack the ability to replace it if/when you do.
I have been wanting to make a folding printer for a while. Either an a1 mini or a prusa mini. I would want to fit inside a Pelican 1535 Air Carry-On Case. Not so much to fly with it, but to have it be portable and have the option to take it with me if I wanted. The positron is cool, but has some draw backs. I think building on a common printer would have a lot of benefits. I currently only have an A1 but am thinking about getting an A1 mini with the goal of making it into a folding printer once I finish a couple of other project.
Bambu’s model website is called MAKERworld for a reason. This sort of project is the sort of thing makers do.
Make this a product request to Bambu Lab. It will cost more though due to the necessary redesign and thousands of testings to make it work reliably. Also it will come with a protective case.
Finally someone with a similar vision. I’ve also been busy with other projects but I would love to collaborate with you if you’re interested. I use Onshape primarily. Due to all the screws being practically unreachable, the easiest solution would be to drill two holes in the back side aligining with the left four screws and making the opposite screws, a single passthrough. The more advanced and better option would be to 3D print the z-axis extrustion (as it uses a linear slide anyway) and it would have a snap fit connection on the bottom. Shouldn’t be that hard, I just haven’t found a good prexisting model and I currently don’t have the time to make one.
I’m not trying to wait a year to have it in my hands if they make it. Also if I get it to work there is a change I get to work with them on the production design.
I mainly use Fusion, but have thought about dipping my toes into on shape. Do you know if there are any 3d models of the printer including internals? I don’t have any hands on time with an a1 mini, so I haven’t thought about the best way to convert it.
I’m thinking to do it for an while! Lets do the Bambutron? I can take the measures of my A1 Mini. I want to buy an bigger one, will have an better reason for it now!