The V-Spooler [Source: MakerWorld]
This week’s selection is the V-Spooler by MakerWorld contributor Fyrby Additive.
The V-Spooler is a 3D printable device to move filament from one spool to another. If you’ve ever had to do this by hand, it is definitely not a fun task.
Why move filament? In the old days it was often done because a spool might have been damaged, requiring a new spool. Nowadays there are several reasons for doing so.
The popularity of “refill” filament products is increasing. These products, essentially filament coils without a spool, are sold at reduced prices. However, to use them, they need to be placed on a spool.
Also, the demand for automated filament changing devices is on the rise, such as those manufactured by Bambu Lab’s AMS and Anycubic’s new Color Engine Pro. These accessories can conveniently accommodate up to four spools in a compartment, and can transport them to and from the hot end as needed during printing. This allows for multi-colored 3D prints.
That being said, these accessories usually impose limitations on the size and type of the spools—they must fit well and be able to roll. As a result, many people are left with no choice but to re-spool their less expensive filament onto spools that are compatible with the accessory.
There’s a wide array of 3D printable re-spooling devices available to the public, from basic hubs to more intricate designs. Among these, the V-Spooler has garnered attention for being the most complex and intriguing.
The V-Spooler utilizes two spools, with one being full at the top, and the other being empty at the bottom. The source of power is a standard variable speed hand drill that connects to the bottom spool’s hub.
When power is engaged, the mechanism’s gears rotate the spools, making the filament shift to the bottom spool. Notably, a sliding component ensures that the filament is evenly distributed on the spool, a feature not ordinarily found in other spooling devices.
A sizable amount of parts need to be 3D printed for the V-Spooler, and the provided plates demand a reasonably large build area. For instance, they will not fit on a Bambu Lab A1 Mini due to its smaller size. Nonetheless, Fyrby Additive offers a smaller version of the V-Spooler.
After the parts have been printed, a great deal of assembly is required along with various additional hardware. This includes items such as 20 (!) 608 bearings, 52 bolts and washers, and some PTFE tubing.
There are lengthy assembly instructions provided in the MakerWorld entry, which should make it relatively painless to put together.
Once done you’ll have a powerful and easy-to-use filament re-spooler that doesn’t take up much desk space.
Is it worth all this printing and assembly? I think it could be, because it allows you to easily switch from regular spools to refills, and the cost savings alone should be quite beneficial.
Via MakerWorld
Read More: Spotlight Design: Unveiling the V-Spooler of the Week - 3D Printing News