Filament Tags with RFID

These parametric RFID compatible filament tags are designed to integrate with the Modular Spool Drybox for Centauri Carbon 2 by theStonefox, though they could easily be used with any 3D printer with a magnetic frame and/or RFID reader. This makes it quick and convenient to grab the tag for your filament, tap it on the RFID reader, and then stick it to the outside of the drybox cover or frame of the printer and be easily able to tell what's in the drybox in that position at any time without having to open it and expose your filament and desiccant to ambient moisture unnecessarily. 

Features:

• Two Aesthetic Variations - A rounded profile to match the contours of theStonefox's dryboxes, and an angled version that prints more cleanly without supports.

• Dual-Use Magnetic Mounting- Magnet placement is designed to work with the magnets for the desiccant holders in the Modular Spool Drybox, but will work with any metal 3D Printer or drybox.

• RFID Integration- A dedicated built in pocket to allow inclusion of RFID tags for easy and seamless filament swaps with any multi-material system that includes a RFID reader and a channel in the holder if the user prefers a RFID sticker attached to the back of the filament card.

• Customizable Filament Tags- Easy to use OnShape document allows creation of tags with fully customizable text.

• Flexible Use- Option to create either a set number of holders and swap cards between them, or create a holder for every filament. The tags can be easily removed from the holders, but are snug enough that they won't fall out unintentionally.

• Built in Swatch Bar- An integrated swatch to show transparency and color coverage for the selected filament at 1-5 0.2mm layers for easy reference for color coverage and transparency, HueForge, etc. 

Printing Instructions:

The holders are designed to be printed standing up. The Beveled version can be printed completely support free. The Rounded variant matches the profile of the Drybox system, but will require supports for the shallow initial curve at the bottom of the holder. A brim may or may not be required depending on your selected material and bed adhesion.

The tags themselves can be created through this OnShape Document. Just create a copy for yourself, and then adjust the First, Second and Third Line Text objects to read as you see fit. Then export everything but the Filament Tag Holder part as a Step file. The tag is designed to be printed on its back, with the 'Filament Card' part as your background color, and the other parts (Part 3, Part 4, etc) to be either the filament indicated by the card, or a contrasting color as you prefer. The text is large enough that it should print cleanly and legibly with a 0.4mm nozzle just fine, though you may want to try Arachne as your wall generator if you end up with gaps in the letters. 

Materials:

Magnets: Each holder uses 2 5mm x 2mm round magnets like these which match the magnets used in the Drybox system for the CC2. The holder design is included in the OnShape document and I've included the STEP file for both holders if you'd like to modify the design to accomodate different magnets.

RFID Tags: These can be purchased pretty cheaply on Amazon or elsewhere. The Elegoo system for RFID tags is open source, and the tags can easily be read and programmed with the mobile apps ELG RFID for Android or TigerTag for iOS. Most modern cell phones include a RFID reader to make this easy and painless.