Topic: Jigsaw Replacement mk4
I know it hasn't been very long since the mk3 release but when the challenge was laid down for a quick release hot end I couldn't resist.
Thingiverse Link
http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:47561/
The advantages of this new model:
- Hotend can be removed without undoing a single nut or bolt. The filament does not even need to be retracted. This should allow multiple hot ends to be interchanged or the hot end to be removed for unclogging in seconds. See video at the end.
- Adjustable screw for x-axis end stop homing. Now you can tweak your home position for the x axis. This may come in handy if you need it to home further to the left to clear bed clip or something like that.
- Even less screws required for assembly. The wooden laser cut plate that used to hold the PEEK barrel is no longer required, and that eliminates two nuts and bolts.
- The hot end sits higher than before, allowing about 5mm extra z-height for printing. This means adding a glass bed is easier and may not require any change to the z-height adjustment bracket.
Compromises of this new model
- Although the accessory easy clip on system is retained, it is compromised due to having a gap in the middle. If you do not desire the quick release feature, then print and use the retainer from the mk3.
Credits
Credit to Tek and Jeffery Sanders for their contributions.
Instructions
1. Print the three STLs: main, top and retainer. 50% fill is recommended with support turned off. You may like to use a drill bit to clean the bores where the M3 screws go through.
2. Use a sharp knife to remove the built in support section of the main piece. In this release the top piece is a new design and prints a different way up to avoid needing support.
3. Attach body piece to extruder carriage. Depending on your model you may have nuts at the front. If so, place them in the hex cut out and then screw in the long M3 bolts. Use one of the shorter M3 bolts that used to hold the wooden plate as the x axis end stop.
4. Attach the stepper motor to the body piece.
5. Attach top piece and tensioner arm. Original tensioner arm may be used if you prefer.
6. Screw on retainer piece if you plan to use clip in accessories. I used countersunk M3 bolts.
7. Slide in PEEK barrel with hot end attached.
Print!
Demonstration of quick change
Applications
Easy removal of hot end to clear clogs is now easier than ever. I am building a second hot end and will keep one for ABS and the other for PLA. Changing between will now be effortless and I won't have to worry about the mixed materials clogging. You could also have another hot end with a larger size nozzle to interchange.
I have what I think is a really good an super fast heating hot end design now, which I will document the build of when the rest of the parts arrive. Its secret is using two heating resistors for rapid response.