How to print RoPods
For printing you will need:
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access to a 3D printer extruder with a nozzle 0.4 mm
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PETG filament, white or transparent, ⌀ 1.75 mm
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24 x 60 mm microscopy coverslip #1.5, i.e. 0.16-0.19 mm thick ( VWR, 630-2108).
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superglue
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.3mf or .stl file for RoPods
Step 1. Generate the g-code
A. The RoPod 5 chamber and the lid should both be upside up on the print bed. B. The layer with the slot for glasses should be the last one before the pause C. Slot for the glasses is highlighted with the dotted line D. The very next layer after the paused layer
A. The RoPod 5 chamber and the lid should both be upside up on the print bed. B. The layer with the slot for glasses should be the last one before the pause C. Slot for the glasses is highlighted with the dotted line D. The very next layer after the paused layer
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It is highly recommended to generate from the provided .3mf project files. However, we also provide .stl files
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If you prefer to use .stl, set the following parameters:
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follow the instructions for the chamber positioning
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Print settings-> Layer height = 0.1 mm
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Print settings-> Fill density = 50%
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Print settings-> Fill pattern = 3D Honeycomb
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Print settings-> Layers and Perimeters-> Vertical shells-> Perimeters = 4
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Slice the model and insert a pause after 5 mm height
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You can simultaneously print up to 17 RoPods on a Prusa MK2or MK3. However we strongly recommend to start with just one
Step 2. Clean the coverslip glasses
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Remove dust and fat from the glasses by wiping them clean with a paper tissue soaked in acetone
Step 3. Start the print
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Start the print and wait until it automatically pauses on the layer programmed int the Step 1.
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The extruder will move to the back left of the print bed while waiting for the user to resume the print
Step 4. Place the glasses into the slots
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The chambers and lids models have 0.1mm deep slots for the coverslips
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Add a drop of super glue to two corners of a glass. This will secure the glass' position during printing
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Use forceps and patience to carefully place the glass into its slot. Make sure it does not stick upwards or sideways
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Press down on the the corners with glue and hold for a few seconds. sic! wear gloves! superglueing oneself to a 90C- hot print bed is not a good way to start your day
Step 5. Resume the print
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Resume the print and make sure the the filament does not move the glass from its position and does not crack it
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When the chamber is ready make sure there is no filament sticking sideways. If needed imperfections can be removed with a scalpel
Video
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In this video you will find a quick step-by-step demonstration how to print a RoPod