Researchers at the RTU MIREA technological university in Russia have developed a modular 3D printer featuring an automatic print head switching system. The device uses a carriage with a magnetic mount to swap components, allowing for seamless transitions between different materials without manual intervention.
The printer is capable of creating objects within a build volume of 300x300x250 mm with a printing speed of up to 700 mm/s. It supports various plastic types, including PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, and HIPS, enabling users to select materials based on specific project requirements.
The project was completed by students Nikita Kochetov, Veronika Ermolaeva, and Daniil Kotov as part of the 'Startup as a Diploma' initiative at the Department of Digital and Additive Technologies. The team intends to integrate real-time quality control systems to monitor printing and reduce material waste.
