Snapmaker has hired developer Radu Ratdoux to integrate a new multicolor 3D printing technique into its software. The system allows creating intermediate tones without needing to change filament, reducing material waste. The feature will be incorporated into the Snapmaker U1 software and will remain open source, aiming to improve efficiency in multicolor printing.
How color mixing works without a dual head 🎨
The technology is based on controlled modulation of filament flow during extrusion, combining segments of primary colors in the hot nozzle to generate gradients. Unlike systems that require a mixing head or multiple hotends, this method uses algorithms for precise synchronization between material advancement and bed movement. The open source code will allow the community to adapt the technique to other models and optimize plastic consumption.
Goodbye purge tower, hello fake colors 😅
Until now, changing color on a 3D printer was like moving apartments: you had to throw half a spool in the trash and pray it wouldn't clog. With this system, you can print a vase that transitions from navy blue to bottle green without your purge tower looking like an abstract art piece. The best part is, since it's open source, if something goes wrong, you can blame Radu and not the manufacturer.