How to expand your QIDI Plus4 3D Printer?
Table of Contents
When working with 3D printers, many users will want to add some useful features to the device. However, not all printers support such extensions.
In this case, QIDI Plus4 is not only an open source device, but also a powerful tool compatible with a wide range of hardware extensions and DIY modifications. Within a reasonable range, users can design and print out their own accessories to personalize the printer according to their needs and creativity.
Today, we will introduce you to two simple and practical expansion modules, which can not only significantly enhance the printing experience, but also add more fun to your 3D printing journey!
Basic Expansion Module
1. Purge Bin
Module Description: When using QIDI Plus4 for filament replacement and nozzle wipes, excess waste is ejected from the excess chute. Without a suitable container to collect these wastes, they can be strewn all over the work area, detracting from tidiness and aesthetics. The Purge Bin is a tool designed to solve this problem. It catches the ejected waste steadily and effectively collects the waste generated during the printing process, helping to keep the work area tidy. In addition, the purge bin is easy to remove, making it a very practical accessory.
Model Display：
Installation Instructions:
- Align the two fixing clips on the back of the purge bin with the heat dissipation holes on the back of Plus4.
- Insert the clips into the heat dissipation holes to complete the installation.
Download: https://fpfdesigns.com/152_qidi_plus4_purge_bin.html (Thanks to the creator u/FunctionalPrintFriday for contributing this model, which is now available on YouTube!)
2. Top Glass Support
Module Description: When printing certain filaments with the QIDI Plus4, the glass top cover needs to be opened to ensure better ventilation and cooling. However, removing and reinstalling the top cover is often a tedious process. Since the top cover is made of glass, it is difficult to store it properly after removing it, and it can easily be bumped or broken. The Top Glass Support is designed to solve this problem. It allows users to print unsealed without removing the glass top. The bracket can lift the top cover and hold it securely in a semi-open position. What's more, the bracket can be permanently attached to the grip of the glass top, allowing the user to switch between closed and unsealed modes with a simple operation, which greatly enhances the convenience of operation.
Model Display：
Installation Instructions:
- Assemble the two parts together and snap the clip into the handle of the glass top.
- Expand the bracket to support the glass cover.
- When closed printing is required, the bracket part can be turned upside down on the handle of the glass top cover.
Note: If you find that the downloaded "hine-1.stl" model is too large to be inserted into the top cover handle after printing, please reduce the print to 95% of the original size in the X-axis direction in the slicing software. Remember to turn off proportional scaling before reducing. As shown in the figure below:
Download: https://www.printables.com/model/1082410-qidi-plus-4-top-glass-support (Thanks to the creator u/KarolT_2620410 for his contribution, this model was published on Printables!)
User Reviews
We have collected some user reviews of these extension modules. Here are some of the feedback:
1. Purge Bin
- u/mikko001 on YouTube: Thanks, printed it from ABS, came out nice and seems to fit :)
- u/robertclaude5961 on YouTube: Hi, thanks for this video, I will received my 4+ in few days (I hope) but I still start to watch tip and tric on it. The expuls of this bullet of filament is nice to know. I will create one also because access to the back will be not easy in my small house :) Have a nice day.
2. Top Glass Support
- lu/roman726: Fits nicely. Keeps temps down significantly. Thanks.
- u/PGTT2021: Printed in OVERTURE Super PLA Plus Rock solid Low Profile. Can be folded out of the way when not needed. Great design. Thank you.
Summary
We encourage every QIDI user to try to create new expansions and DIY modifications according to personal needs and interests. If you have any interesting ideas or successful expansion projects, please share them in our 3D printing community. Because of your participation and contribution, our community will be more harmonious and informative. Let us all make continuous progress and create more possibilities together!