Camera Resolution and Compatibility: When choosing a camera for your 3D printing setup, opting for one with a resolution of at least 640x480 pixels is crucial. This resolution ensures the captured images are clear and detailed enough for better defect detection. Additionally, the camera should be compatible with the 3DPrinterOS Client, which is the software that enables seamless communication between your computer and the 3D printer. We recommend the Raspberry Pi Camera (v1 or v2), Logitech C920, or Genius F100 cameras.

Supported Devices: The 3DPrinterOS client can run on various devices, offering flexibility in your setup. Raspberry Pi and other compatible single-board computers are excellent choices for a dedicated and efficient 3D printing environment. Alternatively, you can install the client on Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu-driven PCs if you prefer a traditional desktop setup. The detailed list of supported platforms can be found here.

Lighting Considerations: Adequate lighting on the print bed is critical for accurate spaghetti defect detection during printing. LED strips are a reliable and cost-effective solution for achieving well-lit conditions. The evenly distributed light helps eliminate shadows and provides a clear view of the print's surface. You can see a good example at the end of this article.

Avoiding Overexposure and Reflections: While good lighting is essential, care must be taken to avoid overexposure, which can wash out important details in the images. Fine-tune the LED strip's intensity to strike the right balance between illumination and avoiding overexposure. Additionally, be mindful of any reflective surfaces near the print bed that could cause unwanted glare or reflections in the camera's view.

Camera Positioning and Field of View: Proper camera positioning is critical for effective defect detection. The camera should have an unobstructed view of the entire print bed. Avoid placing the camera too close to the print bed, hindering the detection of defects in the outer areas. Ideally, the camera's position should enable it to capture the entire print bed area within its frame.

Centering camera on the Print Area: Ensure that the print bed area's center aligns with the camera frame's center. This ensures that defects occurring in the center of the print are captured accurately and not obscured by an off-centered view.

Obstruction-Free View: To prevent any potential obstructions, position the camera so that it remains clear of the extruder tool piece, any other moving parts of the 3D printer, and the printer’s internal cables. Obstructions in the camera's view could hinder the detection of defects, rendering the setup less effective. In the following images, you can see an example of good conditions.