MakerBot Industries

As many of you know, the recent release of ReplicatorG has introduced some of the software features that are necessary to use your Thing-O-Matic with two extruders, a process we like to call DualStrusion.

DualStrusion is highly experimental right now, and we’re all learning about it — engineers, developers, and tech support agents included.  While it’s a very exciting process, don’t expect DualStrusion to work right out of the box without some serious troubleshooting: that’s the cost of being on the cutting edge.

In light of that, we’ve just created a new support forum for DualStrusion experimenters to share their learning and experiences.  And so, I give to you: the DualStrusion experimenters support forum.

As you know, I loved the original tiny toy dump truck.  Madscifi showed us the progression of each of the versions leading up to the one that had a movable bed and rolling wheels.  We’ve seen some pretty cool print-at-once things on Thingiverse, but madscifi’s work seems to be opening up a new area with an awesome cam shaft.

His Thingiverse post also provides a lot of detail about how he used manual support to accomplish this print.  The process amounts to introducing pauses into the GCode, putting clay on the platform at the exact proper level, and then resuming the print.

Tiny Toy Dump Truck with Cam Action Bed by madscifi

This is a variation of the Tiny Toy Dump Truck that does require support in order to print. The use of support allows cylindrical wheels, a bed axle sleeve that is no longer sliced, and the addition of a cam and rod that lifts the bed once per rotation of the back axle. It can be printed as a single piece on a standard Reprap/Makerbot by manually introducing support material during the print. See youtube.com/watch?v=47iEXR6xXnE for a video of a working copy that was printed on a standard Reprap.

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When I’ve needed to get into my Thing-O-Matic for upgrades, service, or just to play around with something I’ve had to lean the case back with one hand as I work with my other hand.  Pchretien’s servicing support legs are just downright brilliant.  I’ll admit to have let the Thing-O-Matic case rest on my right wrist as I peer down through the acrylic bottom while making a small change – rather than trying to hold the entire case at an angle.  That’s the robotic equivalent of holding a car hood up with the back of your neck while you peer around inside.

I have a feeling that a derivative that is mounted on the inside of the Thing-O-Matic and swivels down when you lift up the case can’t be far behind.

Servicing Support Legs by pchretien

Most of us want to hack into our TOM and, to do so, we need to open it up. There are so many wires in there that it is difficult to completely remove the top cover. These legs are made to hold the top of the Makerbot while you are playing in it.

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Simple Hinge by PieterNr1

Apparently, when you properly arrange objects in an STL for printing at once, you can do so in such a way as to eliminate the need for support structures!  Not only is this a clever use of limited build space, but it also conserves plastic while allowing printing of ever more intricate designs.

PieterNr1′s Simple Hinge above is the first object I’ve seen to use this technique.  It appears from the photograph that there is some slight drooping underneath the top two ledges – but I’m guessing this isn’t enough to interfere with proper operation.  Looking at his implementation of this technique, I have to wonder whether it could be used to print some of the various tracks and treads under development on Thingiverse.

Simple Hinge by PieterBos

My attempt of making a hinge. I do not know how strong it is but it works for now at least. It a openscad thingi so you can mod it. It only hinges at 90 deg but that is what i needed ;-)

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BetaSolution

If you’ve got a dual extruder in your 3D printer, you’re not far off from printing with support material.  A few months ago our friends at iFeelBeta published the details on their newly developed formula for a solution that would dissolve PLA and leave ABS intact.  As these chemicals are no joke, it’s no wonder that it’s taken several months for them to get the legal clearances to be able to ship this solution throughout Europe.  (It’s basically the equivalent of a heavy duty drain cleaner)  However, they now have BetaSolution up for sale on their website!

Once again, thanks to these guys for being amazing open source innovators and blazing this trail for everyone.  Now that they’ve launched their shop, be sure and buy the solution from them!

Also, be sure and read their safety data sheet and manual before using it!

This position is in the heart of the action of a growing start-up and demands a person who wants to work hard, has patience, technical knowledge and writing skills. You’ve got fires to put out, questions to answer, orders to process, and infrastructure to implement, all the time.

You’ll be responsible for eloquently representing a growing DIY 3D printer and technology company to it’s customers directly. Via email, on the phone, or in person. You’ll help customers solve their technical challenges, sooth their nerves, and reinforce our brand. It’s a challenge, but it’s a dynamic, fun one. The person best suited for this position is an adaptable problem solver with a mind for mechanical, electronic, and software troubleshooting challenges. You’ll put your strong interpersonal and written skills to the test.

We need you to answer emails, but you should also be proficient and comfortable with Mac, PC, and Linux operating systems, design/editing softwares, cameras, and the creative process. The office tools we use most of the time should be a no-brainer. Current MakerBot Operators preferred, but not a requirement. If you’ve had experience with DIY technology, that could be very helpful. You will be processing orders, so an interest in participating directly in a multifaceted online store is a final requirement. Full time, on-site only.

Desire to offer revolutionary technologies and change the world a plus.
Help democratize manufacturing and establish personal manufacturing as a household phrase.

Submit your cover letter, resume, and linkedin profile (preferred)

Brooklyn. Easy access to subway.

Reply to: http://newyork.craigslist.org/brk/tch/2239730862.html

No phone calls, please.

This weeks Robot Hospital! Episode Two is truly reaching for new heights of pre-production here at the BotCave! Those crazy live-stream days are fading into memory~ We have a great instructional segment from Ethan, who teaches you proper Stepper Driver Calibration, and later he covers the 3D Printing blogosphere in his weekly “Blog Rap.” Griffin and Marty demonstrate connecting the Unicorn to the Thing-O-Matic in fine style, and Matt details some great, and not so great, ideas for finishing techniques to use on your printed objects. We have a second interview with Marek from BeatBots, and the Keepon stops by and teaches robots everywhere how to hold space on the dance floor. Isaac drops in to discuss MakerBot Water Soluble PVA, and debuts version one of the Robot Hospital! intro! We’re going for it with this episode, it’s a new benchmark for what’s to come! Musical intro chops from “The Insider”