Rapid Feeder for Your 3D Printer Material
Simplifying Filament Loading with Mr Flippant's Speed Loader
In the world of 3D printing, loading filament can sometimes be a frustrating task due to the stiffness and length of the filament path. However, a new handheld tool from Mr Flippant aims to change that. The speed loader from Mr Flippant is a 3D-printed device designed to streamline and expedite the process of loading filament through a 3D printer's Bowden tube.
The speed loader employs a 12 VDC gear motor that drives a pair of Bondtech-style drive gears, similar to those found in extruders. These gears grip the filament and push it smoothly through the Bowden tube. The device also features a hinged idler gear, which when clamped around the filament, activates a microswitch, turning on the motor. A 9-volt battery powers the motor.
To use the speed loader, simply thread the filament into the start of the Bowden tube, then clamp the tool around the filament where the gears engage it and start the motor. This will drive the filament all the way through to the extruder end, reducing manual pushing effort.
For optimal results, it's best to keep the filament as straight and unkinked as possible. Some variations of similar designs include a reed switch, and users may apply slight extra pressure on the lever to avoid slipping filaments. Additionally, the motor speed/torque can be adjusted depending on filament stiffness or tube length.
In the local area, speed loaders are typically associated with tapes, not 3D printer accessories. But with the introduction of Mr Flippant’s speed loader, this is set to change. The device is a battery-powered, gear-driven handheld tool that automates pushing filament smoothly through Bowden tubes, effectively easing a common mechanical hassle in 3D printing filament loading.
The speed loader from Mr Flippant utilizes technology such as a 12VDC gear motor and Bondtech-style drive gears, which are types of gadgets, to automate the process of pushing filament through a 3D printer's Bowden tube, revolutionizing the way we load 3D printing filaments.
With its streamlined design and ease of use, the speed loader can be considered a modern gadget that embraces the latest advancements in technology, making filament loading a much simpler and less frustrating task.
