AuruMMS by Aurarum multi material multi colour unit for most Klipper and RepRap printers

Description

AuruMMS – what is it?

AuruMMS is multi colour/multi material unit that can be connected to most open source Klipper and RepRap based 3D printers. We wanted to allow users to print in colour on a larger scale printers than the standard choices currently available on the market. You will be no longer limited to small size bed and/or particular brand. You can keep using your beloved Voron, RatRig or any other custom printer that you have and add more flexibility to it.

What does it do?

AuruMMS allows users to use multi colour or multi materials for their 3D prints by changing filament when required while using a single nozzle.

In order to be able to use the feature the materials have to have compatible temperature ranges, otherwise it would require to cool down and heat up the nozzle accordingly with materials changes.

It is true multi material unit since it can work with a range of plastics starting with something simple like PLA, to Carbon fibre materials and even flexible materials such as TPU.

What else can it do?

The unit allows users to set it up in such a way that if the spool runs out of filament the next spool could be used to continue the print.

Did we mention that it has built in filament dryer? Yes active 200W heaters are installed in the unit that allow you to keep your filament nice and cosy.

How flexible is the setup you ask?

Filament changes are pretty quick. Depending on the material type, one can achieve 1m filament changes with 1.5m long feeding tube 🙂

That is fast – isn’t it? Imagine the speed if you have a smaller printer and feed distance.

Alternatively, users can lift out the manifold that joins multiple streams out of the unit and move it closer to printhead. That way it would be shorter retraction distance and that would speed it up even more (see schematics below for an example).

Is it expandable?

AuruMMS comes with 5 bays as standard and that is just a starting point. Multiple units can be put side by side and 20-30 bay cluster can be created. The maximum number would depend on the controller you are using and your particular setup.

What happens with the retracted filament?

When the colour/material change happens the filament is wound up back onto the spool. There is no need for any extra acumulators. Please see the video below of the unit in process of changing colours.

Where is it made?

AuruMMS has been designed and made in Australia – in Melbourne to be precise. We are planning to build and ship all units from our facilities.

AuruMMS in action

What you need to know

Cutter

In order to form a tip of the filament so that it can be retracted and fed back in you will need to install a cutter for the filament on the extruder – as close to the nozzle as possible. The closer it is the better the result because it will need less filament for flushing the colours/materials out before new one can be used.

There are many option and combinations of the extruders and hotend around and thus the users will have to either look around for a design of the cutter that suits their combination or design their own.

In some circumstances (and with some filament), it will be possible to get away without a cutter, but it will be not realiable at best.

Klipper/RepRap

In RepRap case is very simple – you will need at least a Duet3 board or alternative board with CanBus support. The unit will have to be connected to the motherboard using 2 wires.

Klipper provides you an option to use either CanBus or USB connection. Both are available by default. You would choose the option that is suitable for your applciation.

AuruMMS unit will work with Raspberry Pi controlled printers and might work with some other manufacturered printers if (and only if) you have access to full Klipper firmware, since you will have to program the toolboards and change the Klipper config file to suit your setup.

AuruMMS is control

We use a simple macro setup to control the unit. It allows flexibility and minimises setup complexity. We will provide sample macros that would work on pretty much any printer. All you will need to do is to tune the speeds and retraction distance to your particular setup.

Filament drying function

Filament heaters are manually controlled. This was chosen so that even if the printer is off, you still can have the heaters on and dry the filament. It could be configured to use the software to control the temperature, but for that you would need to have the printer on.

Any additional controllers would require additional space and thus would increase the overall size of the unit.

Whom is it for

• First of all for those who want more. Those tinkerers that would like to print in colour in large scale on their custom built large scale 3d printers that they so proud about
• Print farms – those users who would like to save time and avoid loading different material all the time. Just put different colours and/ort materials into all bays and select them from the slicer – bam, you are done. Hit print and pick up the print afterwards. It can also be configured to load next spool when the filament runs out on one of the spools

How does it compare

When comparing our 5-bay Multi-Material Unit (MMU) to the Bambu Lab’s Automatic Material System (AMS), which features a 4-bay capacity, there are several key distinctions that highlight the advantages of our product:

Some sample prints

About us

In 2024, Aurarum is celebrating its 10 year anniversary. Founded with a passion for innovation and quality, Aurarum Pty Ltd is an Australian company specialising in and a leader of the 3D printing solutions arena. Since our inception, we have been committed to empowering creators, engineers, hobbyists, and businesses with the tools they need to bring their ideas to life.

Our Vision at Aurarum, we believe that 3D printing is more than just a technology; it’s a revolution of how things are made. Our vision is to make 3D printing accessible, reliable, and affordable for everyone, from beginners to professionals. We strive to stay at the forefront of this rapidly evolving industry, continuously pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Our Products we offer a comprehensive range of high-quality 3D printers, filaments, and accessories. Our products are carefully selected and rigorously tested to ensure they meet the highest standards of performance and durability. Whether you’re working on a complex engineering project or a simple hobbyist creation, Aurarum has the right tools and support for you on your journey.

Why choose us

·  Innovation-Driven: We are continuously innovating, developing new products and improving existing ones to keep pace with the latest advancements in 3D printing technology.

·  Our Commitment: At Aurarum, we are dedicated to sustainability, sustainable and responsible manufacturing. We aim to minimize our environmental impact by producing high-quality, long-lasting products and adopting eco-friendly practices across all of our operations.

Join us on our mission to revolutionize the way in which we create and build. Whether you’re a business looking to optimize production, a designer aiming to prototype the next big thing, or a hobbyist exploring new creative horizons, Aurarum is here to support you in your own 3D printing journey.

Tech Specs

More reading

Introducing the ultimate upgrade for your 3D printer: the Multi-Material Unit (MMU) with 5-bay capacity! This innovative unit retrofits to existing printers, enabling seamless multi-material printing with minimal waste per color change. Our MMU features a heated enclosure to dry and store filaments, ensuring optimal conditioning for each spool. Say goodbye to excessive purge waste and hello to efficient, vibrant prints. Join us on Kickstarter to revolutionize your 3D printing experience with cutting-edge technology that combines convenience, efficiency, and sustainability. Back us today and be part of the future of 3D printing!

Sources

[1] Why so much waste on multi-color? : r/BambuLab – Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/BambuLab/comments/14ed96h/why_so_much_waste_on_multicolor/

[2] Original Prusa MMU3 now shipping: multi-material printing with … https://blog.prusa3d.com/original-prusa-mmu3-is-here-multi-material-printing-with-improvements-all-around-now-shipping_80485/

[3] Update on Multi Material Upgrade – Original Prusa 3D Printers https://blog.prusa3d.com/update-multimaterial-upgrade_5261/

[4] Multi-material adventures #1 – rigid & flexible – Improve your 3D prints https://community.ultimaker.com/topic/12924-multi-material-adventures-1-rigid-flexible/

[5] Multi-material 3D Printer: Types & Printing Guide – All3DP https://all3dp.com/2/multi-material-3d-printing-an-overview/

[6] Bambu Lab AMS – Automatic Material System https://au.store.bambulab.com/products/ams-multicolor-printing

[7] Multi Material 3D Printing – SOLIDWORKS – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WDMVyfgW4o

What makes our heated enclosure unique for filament drying and storage?

Our heated enclosure for filament drying and storage stands out due to its ability to maintain a stable internal temperature and controlled humidity, preventing moisture absorption during storage and printing. Unlike simple dry boxes, our enclosure not only dries filaments but also ensures consistent performance by minimizing external temperature and humidity fluctuations. This feature is crucial for maintaining the quality of hygroscopic materials, which are prone to moisture absorption that can degrade print quality[3][4]. Our design also optimizes space and functionality, accommodating multiple spools while ensuring easy access and monitoring[5].

Sources

[1] DIY Heated DryBox for 3D Printing filament – under $20 https://richrap.blogspot.com/2018/02/diy-heated-drybox-for-3d-printing.html

[2] How to Dry Filament: PA, TPU, PLA, PVA & PET – Wevolver https://www.wevolver.com/article/how-to-dry-filament

[3] DIY Heated DryBox for 3D Printing filament – under $20 & MasterSpool … https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvTTQqqWIWA

[4] Is filament drying before use necessary? Check it! – 3DGence https://3dgence.com/3dnews/is-filament-heating-before-use-necessary/

[5] What do you find best suits your filament storage needs? https://forum.bambulab.com/t/what-do-you-find-best-suits-your-filament-storage-needs/65769

[6] Investigating different methods of filament drying (Dehydrator … https://www.cnckitchen.com/blog/cyo43tzz88uqge65xgwz0wv8yvv3rs

[7] The Ultimate Filament Dry Box : r/3Dprinting – Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/3Dprinting/comments/upypgr/the_ultimate_filament_dry_box/

[8] Original Prusa MMU3 now shipping: multi-material printing with improvements all around, plus a new FW for MMU2S! – Original Prusa 3D Printers https://blog.prusa3d.com/original-prusa-mmu3-is-here-multi-material-printing-with-improvements-all-around-now-shipping_80485/

Can the enclosure be used for both drying and long-term storage?

Yes, our heated enclosure is designed for both drying and long-term storage of filaments. The enclosure actively heats the filament to evaporate trapped moisture, making it suitable for initial drying. Once dried, the enclosure maintains a controlled environment to prevent reabsorption of moisture, ensuring the filament remains dry over time. This dual functionality distinguishes it from passive methods like desiccant, which cannot remove moisture absorbed deep within the filament[2][3][4].

Sources

[1] Long-term storage tips: protect your things from dust, moisture & pests https://www.austate.com.au/blog/long-term-storage-tips

[2] Yet Another 3D Printer Enclosure and Dry Box – Instructables https://www.instructables.com/Yet-Another-3D-Printer-Enclosure-and-Dry-Box/

[3] What do you find best suits your filament storage needs? https://forum.bambulab.com/t/what-do-you-find-best-suits-your-filament-storage-needs/65769

[4] Investigating different methods of filament drying (Dehydrator, Vacuum, Oven & Desiccant) — CNC Kitchen https://www.cnckitchen.com/blog/cyo43tzz88uqge65xgwz0wv8yvv3rs

[5] A Guide to Moisture and Pressure Protection in Sealed Enclosures https://www.agmcontainer.com/blog/how-to/engineering-moisture-pressure-protection-guide/

[6] Can an external hard drive enclosure be used as a permanent solution https://forums.tomshardware.com/threads/can-an-external-hard-drive-enclosure-be-used-as-a-permanent-solution.3834349/

[7] Dry box confusion – Prusa Forum https://forum.prusa3d.com/forum/english-forum-general-discussion-announcements-and-releases/dry-box-confusion/

[8] Dry Filament….. a dry box or vacuum sealer? : r/prusa3d – Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/prusa3d/comments/18v6632/dry_filament_a_dry_box_or_vacuum_sealer/