Tip: using "total filament" statistics to keep track of spool usage
I've found that you can use the "total filament used" statistic in the firmware for tracking how much is left in a filament. Basically, any time you load a spool, you take note of the total filament used, and then again when you unload it. By keeping a log of these, you can get a pretty good estimate of how much is left in the spool.
I've tried to track this before, by keeping track of exactly what I printed and how much it weighs, etc, but that is too onerous, and I never can remember to note down each and every print. The advantage of this method is that you only have to make a log entry when you load/unload the filament.
Re: Tip: using "total filament" statistics to keep track of spool usage
Or just weigh the spool ;).
Actual total weigh - Spool weigh = Actual Filament left. No need to track down every print.
Often linked posts:
Going small with MMU2
Real Multi Material
My prints on Instagram
Re: Tip: using "total filament" statistics to keep track of spool usage
If you use OctoPi or OctoPrint, there is a great filament manager plug in with lots of detail
Re: Tip: using "total filament" statistics to keep track of spool usage
Right, but weighing the spool involves unloading it and taking it out of my drybox :). Plus, spools from different brands are made differently, and will have different weights, etc.
Re: Tip: using "total filament" statistics to keep track of spool usage
Tare weight can be easily determined in two ways:
1. Once you used one spool completely, weigh it. Most manufacturer are pretty consistent, like Hatchbox 300g.
2. Weigh the spool before you start using it and write it down. "Total weight" - 1000g = "Tare weight"
Anyway, whatever fits your personal needs. I would go crazy to make a note each time I'm using a filament, switching the filament. Usually I just want to know if there is enough filament on the spool for the bigger print. One original weight number on the spool and a scale is sufficient for this purpose.
Update: Tara -> Tare , thanks for the catch
Often linked posts:
Going small with MMU2
Real Multi Material
My prints on Instagram
Re: Tip: using "total filament" statistics to keep track of spool usage
Tara weight can be easily determined in two ways:
Please, don't bring Tara into this. She is very sensitive about such things.
Re: Tip: using "total filament" statistics to keep track of spool usage
https://shop.prusa3d.com/forum/improvements-f14/jasp-load-cell-spool-holder-t3946.html
Thomas
Re: Tip: using "total filament" statistics to keep track of spool usage
I like your DIY approach. But if you don't connect it to Raspi or any other control board, it would be easier to use/reuse existing scales like this one:
Often linked posts:
Going small with MMU2
Real Multi Material
My prints on Instagram
Re: Tip: using "total filament" statistics to keep track of spool usage
Spools can vary even from the same manufacturer. I weigh the new spool when I open the bag and attach a label with it's current weight. If you wonder how much material you have left just weigh the spool and subtract that from the original weight. All that can go wrong is the manufacturer didn't give you the full measure you paid for. 😮
MK2S & Mk3 my mini farm is alive 😆