👋 Welcome to The Filament Feed!

Today’s top stories: Instant color changes on a 3D printer by changing the nozzle angle? Also, advanced manufacturing of hydrogen tanks for drones, and 3D Printed breast implants.

Quick Note: We generally try to get our newsletter out Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. We are currently working through some personal changes and will be putting the newsletter out twice a week as time allows for the next few months. Thank you for understanding the change in frequency!

🤩Hobbyist 3D Printing

Instant Color Changing Rotating Nozzle Built by Reddit User “sophier” - Link

An enthusiast named Heinz Löpmeier has developed a novel 3D printing nozzle that significantly reduces waste during multi-color prints. Unlike traditional methods that require purge towers to clean filament between color changes, Löpmeier's design involves rotating the nozzle itself.

By mapping colors to specific nozzle angles, the system can achieve smooth color transitions without the need for purging excess material. Löpmeier utilized Blender software to develop a Python script that controls the nozzle rotation, enabling intricate color patterns.

While the technology holds potential for commercialization, Löpmeier currently expresses disinterest in pursuing patents. His focus remains on sharing his innovation with the 3D printing community.

🏭 3D Printing Industry/Commercial

Blueflite Develops Hydrogen Tanks for Drones (3 Minute Read) - Link

Australian drone logistics company, Blueflite, is collaborating with Charles Darwin University to develop lightweight hydrogen storage tanks for drones. The project, supported by the Northern Territory government, aims to significantly increase the range of UAVs compared to traditional battery power.

Using advanced fiber placement (AFP) technology, Blueflite will manufacture high-pressure hydrogen tanks at its new Darwin facility. The company plans to integrate these tanks into its drones for testing and development.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to establish the Northern Territory as a leader in sustainable aviation and manufacturing.

Stratasys and CollPlant Partner on 3D-Printed Breast Implants (3 Minute Read) - Link

Stratasys and CollPlant are collaborating to develop 3D-printed regenerative breast implants. Using Stratasys' Origin 3D printer and CollPlant's bioinks, the companies aim to create implants that can promote natural tissue growth and eventually degrade.

The partnership builds on previous research demonstrating the potential of 3D-printed implants to regenerate tissue without causing adverse reactions. The companies anticipate initial results from the pre-clinical study in the first half of 2025. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in the field of regenerative medicine.

🔦3D Print Spotlight

Sting Jack by La calavera on Thangs.com - Link

Halloween is just around the corner and no better time to start printing some Halloween decorations. This adorably scary jackolatern was created by La Calavera on Thangs.com. They state it can work with both filament and resin so pick your best poison. Head over to the link above and checkout some of the other color schemes they’ve printed. They all look fantastic!

🔗 Quick Links

⬆️ Recent Slicer Updates

• OrcaSlicer - 2.1.0 Official - 6/21/2024 -(GitHub)

• Cura - 5.8.0 - 8/01/2024 (GitHub)

• PrusaSlicer - 2.8.0- 7/1/2024 (GitHub)

• Bambu Studio - 1.9.3 Public Official- 6/21/24 (GitHub)

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You can always send an email to me, Alex, at [email protected]

Until tomorrow!