Pulse Filament Flow Sensor
3D Printing
Electronics
MatterHackers
Table of Contents
Sensor that allows 3D printers to detect filament jams and runouts. Allows for closed loop control of extrusion. Printer can take pause or take action if a problem is detected, and also automatically calibrate extrusion amount while printing. Uses a magnetic hall effect angle sensor to detect the rotation of a gear driven by the filament. Minimizes components by using a compliant mechanism to press and idler wheel against the filament, which in turn spins the sensor gear. Interfaces with the printer’s controller using I²C.
Responsibilities #
- Mechanical design (CAD) in Onshape
- Electrical PCB design in KiCad
- Wrote driver for Smoothieware to interface with sensor via I²C