Mutiple files in one print

I was wondering how I could manage to print multiple student project files on one run of the BFB3000 dual head model? Is it possible at all? I want to learn how to print 3-7 student projects in one run of the machine.

It is possible but difficult depending on the post processing software you use (and the software used to create the projects). With Skeinforge and Axon it's not possible to add several different .stl files to the "print job" at the same time. (But it is possible to print multiple copies of the same file in Skeinfore using the multiply plugin). I think it is possible if you use Netfabb but I think you would need to use the Pro version with the RapMan/RepRap engine..... quite costly and I'm not certain if the latest release candidate of the engine works with the Pro version.

Another possible strategy that may work with Solidworks (but last time I tried with Pro/Engineer it didn't work) is to create an "assembly" of the student's files in the Solidworks and export the whole thing as a single .stl file. Then post process in Axon as normal.

Before you start doing this I would recomend that you think about the learning experiences that the students are engaged in.... OK, yes the speed of production may be greatly increased by reducing the number of times that you have to load files and set up the machine but the students will miss out on the opportunity to set up the prints for themselves and all the knowledge and understanding that goes with it.... a trade off you would have to judge for yourself.

Another couple of things to think about in the "multiple print jobs at once" scenario.... what happens of one of the prints fails due to a "bad design" or some other glitch? instead of losing one print you will lose several, and if that happens towards the end of the print job you could loose several hours of printing and quite a lot of materials. Also don't forget that all the objects are printed at the same time layer by layer (Not one complete print followed by the next etc) This means that each layer cools much more before the next layer is printed... it can make the interlayer adhesion be not so good (depending on material in use)... so printing on a heated bed or in a heated chamber would probably have to be considered.

Also can someone tell me if this is the correct order of printing sequence:

1. Build object ( we use solidworks)

2. Put into NETFAB to orient and get it to align to bed. NETFAB also checks to see if it can be built

3. Put STL file into BFB axon software and set up print temp, speed, fill density, etc.

Pretty much correct... but...

1. Build object... best if you can get the orientation correct in the first place (you may then be able to miss your step 2 of using Netfabb)... Then export as .stl file.

2. Put into Netfabb.... yes but you may be able to skip this if you orientate correctly ... and axon should align the object to the bed anyway.

3. open .stl file in Axon, dont forget to set the printer configuration and build settings. save to SD card.

4. Assuming the machine is set up correctly (latest firmware, level bed, nozzle height above bed, etc) run the file make a coffee and watch the project build.

 

Dave

 Hi tdaniels,

There are different ways to print multiple parts at once. The simpliest way I've found is using 'blender' a free application. You can import as many STL files as you like into the program then select all the STL files and export them as 1 STL file. You will need to set all the imported STL files z heights to 0 in blender before exporting.

- Sam

If the projects file types differ, you would need a file extension software to be able to open them all. What you want to do id not impossible but you have to make sure all the files you try to print have the same extension, grouping them according to this criteria would save you a lot of time.