Is there a 3d printer that has a 4th axis head?
March 25, 2018 10:52AM
Is there such a thing as a 3d printer that can print in any orientation?

For example, if the head had a wrist action to allow it to rotate, it could print sideways?

Alternatively if the print head was fixed so it was always pointing downwards and the bed/work piece had 4 or 5 axis of movement (as in a robot arm), you could print any direction instead of in flat layers.

You would then avoid the need for supports and in filling.

I wasn't sure if delta printers could do something like that?

No sure if such a thing exists?
Re: Is there a 3d printer that has a 4th axis head?
March 25, 2018 11:52AM
There are setups like that, but it is easier to just use an existing robot arm and put an Extruder on it than creating a new printer type. Robot arms are available in so many sizes and classes, there is no need for a new printer.


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Re: Is there a 3d printer that has a 4th axis head?
March 25, 2018 01:16PM
Its a software problem, not a hardware one. The slicer would have to become manual/interactive because there would be an infinite number of ways to slice any model. You are also overestimating the versatility of a 5 axis printer, because the nozzle and extruder assembly will interfere with the part (and bed) if you try to do anything clever.

Something like soluble support is cheaper, easier, and can also print every geometry so the advantages of 5 axis are fairly limited.
Re: Is there a 3d printer that has a 4th axis head?
March 25, 2018 07:17PM
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