ABOUT US
M3DP – modify3dprinters.com goal is to utilize the CNC (Computer Numerical Control) capabilities of the Ender 3, 3 pro, 3V2 3D printers through providing holders for multiple tools used by hobbyist, crafters, modelers, carvers, engravers, 3D printers, inventors and innovative creators.
After retiring with 40+ years from two large manufacturing companies and having a many years’ experience in industrial design, tool design, CNC programing, manufacturing processes and business management I realized I missed the creative, designing and building processes. In 2021 I discovered 3D printers, Fusion 360 and the unlimited opportunities that 3D Printing provides. I purchased an Ender 3. With my background and experience I adapted quickly. However, after 3D printing several projects, models of my dogs, cookie cutters, latches for my fence, window locks, etc., etc…. I began modifying and upgrading the Ender 3 beyond reason.
Next I thought I should get a multi-tool machine like the Snapmaker; however, it is expensive at almost 10 times the cost of my Ender 3. It also locks me into the Snapmaker 3D printing, CNC and laser capabilities. The setup and change over from one process to the other requires time consuming disassembly and reassembly for each application. Not for me.
Next I looked at the WamBam Mutant 2 tool swapping system for the X-Gantry. However, it required major disassembly, has complicated electrical wiring connections, complicated holes for adapting to many types of printers hotends, limited direct drive extruder installation, is expensive at half the price of the Ender 3 and loses Y-Axis print area (15mm) on the print bed. Design and printing all tool adapters is still required. Not for me.
I also looked at the Xchange Tool Changer by printermodes.com. It is similar to WamBam Mutant 2.
It required major disassembly, has complicated electrical wiring connections for wiring disconnection, complicated holes for adapting to many types of printers hotends, limited direct drive extruder installation, is expensive at half the price of the Ender 3, loses Y-Axis print area on the print bed and I still had to design and print all my tool adapters. Not for me.
Next I looked at the Hermit Crab from BIQU. Very similar to the other tool hotend exchangers. It was similar to the other two options. it required major disassembly, complicated electrical wiring connections for wiring disconnection, complicated holes for adapting to many types of printers hotends, limited direct drive extruder installation, is expensive at half the price of the Ender 3, loses Y-Axis print area on the print bed and I still had to design and print all my tool adapters. Not for me.
To me these options were developed or targeted for higher-end applications and much more than basic skills to install.
I only had an Ender 3 at the time and did not want to figure out how to utilize all the different slots, holes or modify wiring that could potentially destroy my motherboard. I wanted something consumer grade, affordable, having a broad range of options, adjustable to common hobby or simple hand tools and easy to remove and replace.
I went back to my CNC experience and realized the performance and value of the CNC machine was to be able to have access to the right tool at the right time. CNC machines use common tool holders to hold specialty tools. These specialty tools and holders are stored on a cart, in a machine magazine, or automatic tool matrix that permits the operator quick access to the specialty tools when it needs swapping it in and out manually or automatically.
Therefore M3DP – modified3dprinters.com “Swappable and Adjustable Tool Holder System” was developed.
Take time to review the modified3dprinters.com website, videos, and installation tutorials. Purchase the “Basic Hotend Starter Bundle” to make accessing your 3D printer easier to maintain and expandable. Explore how you might use other M3DP Tool Holders to reach beyond 3D printing and expand your creative capabilities using tools you are already use and create something you never thought you could.
Designer and Developer
Samuel Lynn
M3DP – modified3dpinting.com