Rebuild and modernize an Ender 3 printer by upgrading the MCU/control board and extruder components, installing Klipper firmware, configuring the printer, and tuning it for faster and more reliable printing. Additional mechanical or electronic upgrades could be explored after the initial conversion.
Repair a large-format 3D printer with a damaged build-plate carriage. Identify an existing replacement design or measure and design a new component, fabricate/install it, and recalibrate the printer.
Replace the main control board on a large-format printer. Determine hardware requirements, select/configure a compatible controller, connect motors, heaters, thermistors, and end stops, install firmware, and test the rebuilt system.
Evaluate one or both large-format printers and identify hardware, firmware, or mechanical upgrades that could improve print quality, reliability, speed, or ease of maintenance. Implement and document selected improvements.
Build and integrate an existing multi-material unit using hardware already available in the lab. Print required components, assemble the mechanism, install/configure firmware, integrate it with a printer, calibrate filament handling, and produce successful multi-material prints.
Build and test a system that converts PET bottles into usable 3D-printer filament. Print and assemble the required components, connect electronics, test different bottle preparation and processing methods, and develop a repeatable production workflow.
Develop reliable printer settings for recycled PET filament produced in the lab. Test temperature, speed, cooling, extrusion, and other parameters; evaluate print quality; and create a documented print profile and workflow for future lab users.
These projects are open to OEC members. Read a proposal to see what is involved, then express interest through your membership account.
