AMS mech is a fully mechanical device composed of 3D printed parts and common items, that can realize automatic filament backup for Bambu Lab A1 and A1 mini, and in theory, all FDM 3D printers.
For those without multi-color printing needs, AMS mech will solve your troubles in printing models when the current filament is low, as well as reducing filament waste. AMS mech uses 1 kg spools with outer diameter of about 200mm.
NOTE:
Some of the pictures and videos are from older versions.
Videos:
https://youtu.be/X8aLBdXkf-I?si=jqVXBaX5WHZJZYcx
https://youtu.be/-7TZ2r0JaDk?si=yoJYVfq8jZQdkYdy
https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV1duPce8EXa/
What AMS mech can do:
① Automatic backup of rigid filaments without pausing print. Change backup spool during printing.
② When used with A1 or A1 mini, filament tangle detection function from the original AMS hub can be kept, even though the original AMS hub is replaced.
③ When used with A1 mini, AMS mech is compatible with SwapMod, turning your A1 mini into a highly automatic mini production line.
What AMS mech cannot do:
① Retrieve filament. AMS mech only has the mechanism to push filament forward.
② True multi-colour printing. Due to ①, and being unable to receive signal from printer, AMS mech can’t realize multi-colour printing like AMS，AMS lite, and BMCU. In fact, AMS mech should be regarded as a spool holder.
③ Backup of soft filament. AMS mech cannot be used with soft filaments such as TPU. Some rigid filaments without enough strength may also encounter problems when used with AMS mech.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
① Although the reliability and stability of the system have been improved as much as possible during the design process, due to the differences in each person's printing environment, related items that can be obtained, and assembly process, the AMS mech you assembled may not achieve expected design purpose.
② Due to the working principle adopted, even if the design functions of AMS mech are fully realized, the use of this system will still have a certain negative impact on the quality of printed parts (a series of problems caused by slightly lower flow rate prior to filament backup).
③ Due to the widely use of 3D printed parts, AMS mech may experience performance degradation after long-term and/or high-temperature use. The robustness of these parts in long-term/high-temperature environments has not been tested in detail.
④ The author of AMS mech cannot be responsible for problems caused by using AMS mech, including but not limited to printing defects, printing failures, printer damage and/or other secondary disasters.
Your understanding is greatly appreciated. Please use AMS mech only if you fully understand and consent with the above content.
Please refer to attached PDF files for detailed information.
