Nextruder Toolholder

Background

This repo is directly inspired by and massively improves my previous project: Nextruder Plotters.

I've had a handful of users reach out expressing an interest in a universal adapter. This repo takes that idea a step further to create a modular mounting surface for ANYTHING. Ideas include:

• Laser

• Welder

• Engraver

• Drill

• Router

• Pen/sharpie/pencil/marker/etc

• Drag knive

• Food/clay/custom extruder

• Bioprinting syringe

• Pick and place vacuum head

• Solder paste dispenser

• Conductive ink pen

• Airbrush/paint gun

• 3d scanner

• Camera

• Tattoo gun

• Foam cutter

• Dial indicator

Features

Here are some things I noted for improvement with the plotter project:

• The teardown required for installation was an observed barrier for use.

• The insertion and removal of the pen/marker post plotting was always a little awkward.

• CoreXY homing prevents the X+ facing adapter location from working.

• You couldn't access the idler tension screws...

And addressing these items, the toolholder project:

• Approach the mounting problem from an installation-first mindset.

• Accessibility-first. Focus on being able to manipulate parts with only a single hand.

• Make a modular system that can be relocated to X+, Y-, or X- orientations.

• You can access the idler tension screws!

BETTER accuracy

The toolholder significantly improves the "gcode to result" plotting accuracy by removing XY play present in the previous adapter series.

BETTER installation

The installation process for the Nextruder Plotter adapters requires a degree of disassembly that most users might not feel comfortable doing. This repo exchanges that for 3 screws and a calibration.

1. Unscrew the PG cover screws, being sure to hold the brass PG-ring in place, and remove the cover.

2. Replace the PG cover with the NTHV1. Start/hand tighten the screws, do not fully tighten.

3. Run the "gearbox alignment" calibration and follow its steps to fully tighten the screws.

BETTER accessibility

One-handed installation, operation, and modification.

BETTER cross compatibility

Planned support:

I'm currently looking for testers. Reach out providing your printer model if interested.

STILL tool free operation

No screwdriver required. The toolholder mounting surface enables modular, tool-free, clip-in adapters to make your Prusa hold anything.

STILL no additional hardware needed

G2 pen and filament is all you need. I make use of the spring for the adapter.

STILL install-and-forget

Install the adapter and maintain the ability to 3d print.

STILL support-free, widespread printability

Max of 45 degree overhangs and example gcode for print orientations.

Design Philosophy

"Oops. I installed it."

• Maintain or exceed the features of the previous project

• Standardize a mounting surface

• Achieve general compatibility via part variations featuring relocation of mounting surface

• Create a series of example adapters

• Enable and engage the community to create their own

Part Naming

NTHV[0]-[1]-[2]-V[3]

1. Nextruder toolholder version

2. Adapter name

3. Adapter descriptor (useful for multiple parts)

4. Adapter version

Known Issues

• MK4S: Autohoming with g2 pen installed will result in Z axis homing failing. The pen must be removed during homing.