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User Guide
Dreamer Desktop 3D Printer
V4.0 10.13. 2015
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CONTENTS
Acknowledgment ............................................................................. 4
Commitment ................................................................................... 5
Introduction .................................................................................... 6
About 3D Printing ........................................................................... 8
Chapter 1. Set up Your Dreamer ...................................................... 10
1.1.Unpackin g Your Dreamer ................................................. 10
1.2 About Your Dreamer .......................................................... 13
1.3 Hardware Assembly ........................................................... 16
1.4 Loading and Unloading Filament ........................................ 20
1.5 Leveling the Build Plate ..................................................... 23
Chapter 2 About Flashprint ............................................................. 26
2.1 Downloadi ng and Installing Flashprint ................................. 26
2.2 Exploring Flashprint .......................................................... 26
Chapter 3. F irst Print ...................................................................... 37
3.1 Single & du al-extrusion print .............................................. 38
3.2 Interface Menus ................................................................ 39
3.3 Methods of printi n g ........................................................... 44
Chapter 4: Other Information .......................................................... 49
4.1.Supports and Service ......................................................... 49
4.2 References ........................................................................ 50
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Acknowledgment
Our sincere gratitude goes to you for your great support to Flashforge
Corporation. Even if you are familiar with earlier Flashforge machines or
3D printing technology, we still recommend that you read through this
guide, as there is lots of important information about the Dreamer for you
to get a better 3D experience. Following this guide will ensure your
successful f irst print journey.
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Commitment
Each member of Flashforge team is definitely passionate about 3D
printing and willing to share this new technology with each individuals o f
the world. Flashforge is committing to providing the best 3D printers and
best service to each clients and customers.
If you can imagine it, you can make it. Together with Flashforge team,
let’s turn the sky into limit.
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Introduction
This User Guide is designed to start your journey with the Dreamer 3D
Printer off in the right direction. It presents the operation process on the
basis of the window 7 operating system. To get familiar with the machine,
it is essential for you to read through this guide. This User Guide includes
four chapters.
The first chapter lays out the guide on setting up the Dreamer and
preparing for its first print. You will learn the ins and outs of FlashPrint
software in the second chapter. The third portion is the actual printing and
covers the procedures for various methods of printing and techniques.
The last chapter includes information regarding obtaining support.
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General Safety W arnings
Please make sure to read this section carefully prior to setting up
and operating the Dreamer.
! Ensure that your Dreamer is earthed lest electrostatic in terference.
! Turn off the machine and unplug the power cable before doing
maintenance or m odi fica ti o ns.
! Always avoiding to touch the nozzle and the plate during operation.
! Only use your Dreamer in a well-ventilated area. (When printing ABS,
small concentrations of Styrene vapor can be released. This may (in some
cases) make you uncomfortab le.)
! Do not leave the Dreamer unattended when during operation.
!
Do not leave the Dreamer unattended when in opera tion.
PRECAUTION:
Prior to powering on the Dreamer, make sure the power supply switch is set
to 115V if you are located in the United States and Canada. For other
countries, please refer to your country’s AC output voltage. Failure to do so
will damage the mainboard . For instructions on how to do this, please refer
to page 14.
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About 3D Printing
What is 3D Printing?
Simply put, 3D printing is transforming three-dimensional models into
physical objects that you can hold and touch. It is also called additive
manufacturing because the 3D model is created by “adding” layers upon
layers of material until the o bj ec t is ful ly formed.
The Technique
Fused filam ent fabric ation is the most com mon method of 3D printi ng. It is
also the metho d that t he Dream er uses. It w orks by melting p lastic material
called filament onto a print surface using high temperature. The filament
solidifies after it cools down, which happens instantaneously after it is
extruded from the print head. 3D objects are formed with the filament
laying down multiple layers.
3D Printing Process
3D printing involves three steps: 1.) 3D model design, 2.) Slicing and
exporting the 3D model, a nd 3.) Making the print
Designing the 3D Model: Currently, there are three way s of creati ng a 3D
model.
Designing From Scratch. You can use free CAD (computer aided design)
software such as Google S ketchup, Tinke rcad, and Blender to design your
very own 3D model. Or grab a copy of one of the commercial 3D design
software such as AutoCAD, Maya, or Rhino3D.
3D Scanners. An alternative method to creating a 3D model is to scan an
object. 3D sc anners work by digitizing a phy sical object, collecting its
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geometric data, and saving it to a file on your PC. There are also apps that
can turn a mobile device into a 3D scanner.
From the Cloud. The most popular way of obtaining a 3D
model is to download it from websites that allow users to upload
3D models that they designed.
1. Slicing an d Exporting t he 3D Model:
A slicing software is required to process and interpret the 3D model into
the language that 3D printer s can understand. The FlashPrint is the slicing
software used for the FlashForge Dreamer.
FlashPrint will slice the 3D model into numerous layers and output it as
a .g file, which is the format read by the Dreamer. The file is then
transferre d to the Dreamer by USB c able, SD card, or Wi-Fi.
2. Making the Print:
Once the out put file h as been tran sferred to the Dream er , it will star t to turn
the 3D model into a physic al object by laying down l ayers of filament.
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Chapter 1. Set up Your Dreamer
1.1.Unpacking Your Dreamer
We are so grateful for your support to Flashforge by purchasing Dreamer
3D printer and so excited to start the print journey with us. After
15-minute reading and learning, we believe you can making your first 3D
object definitely on your own. When you set up your Dreamer 3D printer,
remember that it was built and packaged carefully at the Flashforge
Factory. We hope you will take your time and be just as carefully
unpacking a nd getting setup. Let’s get started!
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1. Put Dreamer package on the clean,
tidy workbench,using a knife to cut t he
tape ,then you can see two quick start
guide,which will guide you know our
Dreamer 3D Printer.
2. Remove the top protective foam
pieces, which also houses the
Dreamer’s
lid. Set this aside for now.
The Dreamer unit will then be exposed.
3. Lift the Dreamer by its side openings
and place it on a flat surface. You will
then see the Expert Kit, power cord,
and USB 2.0 cable in the shipping box.
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In the Expert Kit, you can find a
Carving Knife, a Scraper, Tweezers,
a Sensor line and a Screw Box.
What's more. a SD card
and some
screws, Wrenches in the Box.
4.The Dreamer will have an accessory
box on top of it, which will house the
extruder set. Remove the box and the
foam pad from the Dreamer , and gent ly
lay the extruder set on the Dreamer
build plate.
Inside the accessory box, you will find
an SD card, a side fan du ct, and two
pieces of removable side panels.
5. There are two Build sheets and one
leveling sheet
used for printing and
leveling.
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6. Hold the side s of the bu ild plate a s
shown in the illus tration, and li ft up
slowly unti l it is at the top.
7. You will see one ABS and one
PLA filament roll and two
filament spool holder
under the
build plate once it is moved out of
the way.
8.
Unboxing has been completed.
The illustration to the right includes
all the accessories that is included
with the Dreamer.
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1.2 About Your Dreamer
Main view:
Top view：
Left view：
1. Lid
2. Extruder fan
3. Nozzle
4. Ventilating fan
5. Front door
6. Z axis guide
7. Touch screen
8. Build pla te
9. Filament
10. X axis guide
11. Belt
12. Spring s trip
13. Extruder intake
14. Turbo fan
15. Vent
16. SD card input
17. Power switch
18. Power input
19. Reset button
20. USB input
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Accessory Box
ABS and PLA filament(2) Power Cord USB Cord Vent(2)
Fan Baffle Cap Kit Box Build Sheet Quick State Guide
Tweezers SD Card Leveling Sheet Screwdriver
Scraper Screw Box Carving Knife Sensor line
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Accessory Introduction
PLA&ABS
Filament
ABS&PLA are the source materials
from which you
make objects on the Dreamer.
Power Cable A cable that allows the Dreamer to connect with power
USB Cable A cable that allows the Dreamer
to communicate with a
computer using th e USB inter f ac e on th e computer.
Quick St art Guide Overview of the printer and the operation.
USB stick A data storage device for saving the files.
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1.3 Hardware Assembly
The Dreamer comes pre-assem bled and is alm ost ready-to-prin t (ARP). All
you need to do is set the appropriate voltage, mount the extruder set, and
install the filament. It will only take between 5 to 10 minutes before you
can fire up the Dreamer and prepare fo r your first 3D print!
PRECAUTION:
FlashForge Dreamer uses a switching power supply with 115V/230V.
Prior to installing t he hardware , it is critica l to check t he AC outp ut voltage
of your home or workplace. The power supply should be switched to
reflect your AC output voltage. Failure to do so will cause severe damage
to the Dreamer. Please follow the steps below to switch to the correct
voltage.
For the Unite d Sta tes and C anada, t he correct v oltage t o use is 1 15V. For
most European countries, use 230V. Please double-check as
FLASHFORGE will not be responsible for damages as a result of
improper care.
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Mounting the Ext ruder Set
1. Lay the extruder set on top of the
extruder sea t with t he two extruder fans
facing the front.
2. Secure the extruder set onto the
extruder sea t by us ing two M 3x1 2 from
the bottom up.
3. Install the side fan duct. To do this,
find the side f an duct and attach it onto
the left side of the extruder set. Secure
it with the supplied M3x8 screw.
Tip: place the M3x12 screw through
the mounting hole of the extruder seat
first. Afterwards, align the extruder set
and tighten.
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Installing Filament
1. Lock the filament in place by
securing it with the filament spool
holder and turnin g it counterclockwise.
2.
Feed the filament through the
filament guide tube. Attach the guide
tube onto the two fila ment guide tube
brackets.
3.Stick the build sheet to the build
plate after installing filament, as
picture shows.
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Plugging in Power Cord & USB Cable
1.
Locate the power cord, and plug it
into the Dreamer.
Optional:
Locate the USB cord and
plug one end into the Dreamer and the
other into your computer. The Dreamer
supports USB 2.0.
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1.4 Loading and Unloading Filament
Filament m ust pass throu gh the extr uder and int o the heatin g block in or der
to be melte d. In this u ser guide, we will de monstra te loading a nd unload ing
filament using the lef t side ex tr ude r.
Loading filament:
1. Remove the lid of the Dreamer
2. From the main menu, press the r igh t
icon labeled [ Tools ].
3.Select [ Filament ] and
[ Load
Left ].
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4. Wait for the ext ruder to heat up to the
operating temperature. The extruder
will alert you once it is at the operating
temperature. Load the filament by
inserting it into the extruder at an
upright angle .
5. Filament wil l sta rt to e xtr u de o ut of th e
nozzle. Continue loading to ensure that
the filam ent is ex trud ing in a stra igh t line.
Refer to the trou ble s hoo ti n g sec ti on if the
filament is extruding at an angle.
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Unloading filament:
1. Remove the lid of the Dreamer
2. From the main menu, press the right
icon labeled [ Tools ].
3.
Select [ Filament ] and [Unload
Left ].
4. Wait for the extruder to heat up to the
operating temperature. The extruder
will alert you once it is at the operating
temperature. Unload the filament by
gently guiding it out of the extruder.
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1.5 Leveling the Build Plate
A correctly leveled build plate will almost always guarantee a quality 3D
object. When printed objects have issues, the first step to diagnose is to
check and double-check to make sure the build plate is leveled. A general
rule of thumb is to leave a gap that is the thickness of a piece of paper.
However, for printing finer objects (150 micron and lower), please use a
feeler gauge to level the build plate as it requires a lesser gap between the
nozzle and the bui ld pla te.
The Dreamer utilizes a three-point leveling system for its build plate. At
the bottom of the build plate, there is one spring-loaded knob in the front
and two in the ba ck. Tightening the screw will crea te a bigger gap between
the build plate and the nozzle while loosening it will create lesser gap.
1. From the main menu, select
[Tools] and [Level]
. The extruder
and
the build plate will begin to
move to the sta r tin g p os iti on.
2. Take out the leveling card
(QR-
Code for leveling video can be
scanned)
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5. Press [ NEXT ]. The nozzle will
move to the center of the build plate.
Slide the paper through to make sure
there is a slight friction. Slowly adjust
all the screws by the same amount if
there is no frict ion or too m uch friction .
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Chapter 2 About Flashprint
2.1 Downloading and Installing Flashprint
2.1.1 Downloadin g F la shp r int
Open the link below to download the installation package:
http://www.ff3dp.com
S teps: Support---Downloads---Dreamer FDM 3D Printer
2.1.2 Installation Flashprint
1. Decompress the downloaded RAR and complete installation according
to the instructi ons.
2. Start the software with the start menu shortcut or by clicking the
software icon.
2.2 Exploring Flashprint
2.2.1 Selecting the Machine Type
! After starting Flashprint, you need to select the target machine type first.
When you start Flashprint, a dialog box will pop up. Just need to select
Flashforge Dreamer in the machine type list and click [OK]. You can also
change the machine type via clicking [Print]--[Machine type]. Please see
graphic below:
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2.2.2 Flashprint Menus
Load one or multiple fil es.
Enter the support edit mode
View FlashPrint home screen from one of six viewing angles.
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Move model aroun d on xy -plane; shift+click to m ove along z axis
Turn and rotate your model
Scale the size of your object
Cut the mode l into several parts
Print it directly with your Dreamer or export to your USB stick.
Explanation of the Functions
A. Load: Loads an “stl” format file to FlashPrint. The object will appear
on the screen after a successf ul load.
B. Print: Prints the object as it appears on the screen. Different printing
methods are available (see the part on “Initial Print”). Clickin g
on this will prompt slicing settings where you will be able to
adjust print speed, print material, and more.
C. Look: Allows user to view the object on the platform. Press and hold
the left mouse butto n to pa n the vie w. Press and hold the rig ht
mouse button to rotate the view .
D. Move: All ows user to move objects around the virtual build pla tform.
The coordinates (0,0,0) indicate the middle of the platform.
Changing the x, y, and z numbers will result in displacement of
the object:
· Increasing x value
=
moving object to the right
· Decreasing x value
=
moving object to the left
· Increasing y value
=
moving object to the back
· Decreasing y value
=
moving object to the front
· Increasing z value
=
moving object to the up
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· Decreasing z value
=
moving object to the down
NOTE: Moving the object up or down (z-axis) may result in the object not being set on
the platform hence fail to print. Always make sure to put the object on the platform before
printing.
· On Platform: Brings the object to the platform and make sure it
prints successfully.
· Center: Brings the object to the middle of the platform.
· Reset: Reset all the position displacement changes have been
made to the object.
E. Rotate: Allows user to rotate the object r espect to x, y, and z axis.
· Reset: Resets all the position chan ges t hat have been made to
the object.
F. Scale: Allows user to scale the object to a different size. You can
scale the object either by the actu al dimension of the object or by
percentage.
· Uniform scaling: When this option is checked, changing one
of x, y and z axis values will change all three. This is to ensure
the shape of the object is no t af f ected by changing its size.
(NOTE: Unchecking this box and changing one of the axis values will result in
changing the shape of the object)
.
· Maximum: Automatically scale the object to the maximum size
that the printer can pr in t.
G. Cut: Left-click to select the target model, then click the [Cut] icon
and click again to enter the settings screen, in which users can set the
direction and the position. You can cut with your mouse or according to
the X, Y or Z axis. On top of this, you can enter an exact value to set a
specific posit io n.
H. Extruder: Allow users to choose which extruder they would like to
print the object. Object that print with either extruders would
show in the corresponding color.
I. File:
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· Load: Loads the “stl” file to the program, the object wi ll appear
on the screen after a successful load.
· Save Scene: Saves the file as it appears on the screen.
· Example: Sample 3D designs included in FlashPrint th at users
can print from.
· Recent Files: Files that are currently loaded will be shown here.
· Preference:
· Language: Allows use rs to choose language for the software.
Languages that are available now are English, Chinese
Simplify, Chinese Traditional, and Japanese.
· Checks for upda te after start: This option allows FlashPrint to
check for update. If an update is available , it will prompt users
to update the software version.
· Quit: Exit the software
J. Edit:
· Undo: Undo the last step of modification to the file .
· Redo: Redo an “Undo.”
· Select All: Selects all the obje c ts o n the bu ild pl a te.
· Duplicate: Copy and paste the selected object.
· Delete: Delete the se lected object.
K. Print:
· Connect: Allow users to connect the Dre amer to FlashPrint by
either USB or Wi-Fi.
· Disconnect: Disconnects a connection. This option will be grayed
out when there is no connection established.
· Print: Prints the objec t as it appears on the platfor m.
· Preview: When this box is checked, a summary will be shown
after slicing. It shows the length the filament will be used, the
estimated time , and the total la yers (on the left) for the print
job. User can also scroll the bar on the left hand side of the
screen to see the partial o bject by layers.
· Print When Slice Done: Printing will automatically start after
FlashPrint finishes slicing the model.
· Slice Engine: The engine used to slice the object. Slicing
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engines currently available are Slic3r and Skeinforge. Certain
options/functi ons are only available for the specific slicing
engine.
· Machine T ype: C hoose the number of extruders to prin t with.
Selecting FlashForge Dreamer will print with both extruders
while FlashForge Dreamer Single will print with one extruder.
(
NOTE:When choosing FlashForge Dreamer Single, make sure that the
extruder you selected has filament pre-loaded.)
· Material Right: Choose the material that will be used for the
right extruder.
· Material Left: Choose the material that will be used for the left
extruder.
· Supports: Enable/disable support for the object.
(Note: Excessive
overhang usually requires support to print successfully.)
· Resolution: Presets values for layer thickness, infill, and speed.
These values ca n be modified a t “More Options.”
· Wall
(Available for Slic3r): Builds a wall around the object with the
same height.
· Raft
(Available for Skeinforge): Builds a raft unde r the 3D object.
· Skirt: Builds a single layer wall/outline around the object.
· More Option s:
· Layers
· Layer Height: Smaller number means higher resolution.
typical values are between 0.1 and 0.5 (100 to 500 microns).
Use 0.5 for fast prototypes and 0.1 for fine details.
· First Layer Height (Available for Slic3r): Enter the layer
height of the first layer. A small value of la yer height requires a
more precise leveling in order for the filament to stick.
Sometimes it is diff ic u lt to accomplish. By adjusting the first
layer height, it allows user t o print a fine object with a higher
success rate.
· Number of Shells: Enter the number of layers that surrounding
the object. Typical values are between 1 and 5.
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· Infill
· Fill Density: Enter the density value of the object. 0% means
completely holl ow and 100% means completely solid. Typical
values are between 3% and 50%.
· Fill Pattern: Selec t the pa tte r n for pr int i ng the i nfi ll. Available
patterns are line, rectangle, and hexagon.
· Speed
· Print Speed: Enter a print speed for printing the main object.
Typical values are between 30mm/s and 120mm/s.
· Support Print Speed (Slic3r): Enter a print speed for printing
support. Typical value s are be tw e en 30m m/s and 120mm/s.
· T ravel Speed: Enter a speed for the extruder travel when it is
not extruding filament. Typical values are between 30mm/s and
120mm/s.
· Temp
· Right Extruder: Enter a print temperature for the right
extruder. T y pical val ues are 200˚C for PLA, and 220˚C for ABS.
Note: Different colors may melt at different temperatures. It
is recommended to print with F lashForge or its recommended
filament brands as sub-par quality filaments will clog and
damage the extruder.
· Left Extruder: Enter a print temperature for the left extruder.
Note: When printing using only one extruder, settings for the
other extruder will not matter. For example, if printing only
with left extruder and both extruders are se t to a temperature of
220˚C, the right extrude r will not heat up at all when actually
printing.
· Platform: Enter the platform temperature when printing.
Typical values are 50˚C for PLA and 105˚C for ABS.
· Other
· Turn Fan On: There is a cooling fan atta ched to the left hand
side of the extruder set. This fan is for cooling down PLA
filament after extrusion. Turning on the fan is highly
recommended for PLA prints.
· Auto: if this option is sele cted, the fan will turn on when
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PLA is selected at “Material Right/Left.”
· Overhang Threshold: When printing with support, enter a
number between 0˚ to 90˚ for the slicing engine to recognize
the support area. The degree values are me asure from the
horizontal to the tangent line of the curve.
· Exterior Support Only (Availab le for Skeinforge): When this
option is checked, only exterior support will be built. For
example, when printing letter “O,” supports will be considered
as interior support and when printing a le tter “F,” supports will
be consider exterior su p por t.
· Restore Defaults: Reset all the changes to system default.
· Save Configuration: Save all the settings on this page. When slice
another object, it wi ll loa d t hes e save d se tti ng s.
L. Vie w: Gives us er s 7 different directions to view the obj ect.
· Show Model Outline: Displays an outline of all the objec ts.
· Show Steep Overhang: Displays steep overhang that possibly
needs support when printing.
M. Tools (
only available when Dreamer is connected to FlashPrint via USB)
· Control Panel
· Homing
· Homing X: Move the extruder set to the right side until it
triggers the x-axis sensor and stop.
· Homing Y: Move the extruder to the back until it triggers the
y-axis sensor and stop.
· Homing Z: Move the build pla te up un t il it tri g ger s the z-axis
sensor and stop.
· Homing All: Perform homing for x, y, and z.
· Jog Mode
· Move the extruders and the platform to the direction of the
arrow buttons indicated. Pressing the button once will move
the extruders/platform by the increme nt selected at the drop down menu.
· Stop: When the extruders/platform is moving, this button will
stop this movement immediately.
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· Jog Mode: Select from the drop down me nu for increment of
each move.
· Center X: Same as “Hom ing X .”
· Center Y : Sam e as “Homing Y.”
· Center Z: Same as “Hom ing Z. ”
· Make Current Position Zero: Set the current position of the
extruders and the platform as (0, 0, 0). (NOTE: X, Y, and Z boxes
are for display purposes. Changing the value i n the boxes will
not affect anything.)
· X/Y Speed: Controls how fast the extruders wil l move when
performing the above movements.
· Z Speed: Contro ls how fast the platform will move when
performing the a bove movements.
· End-Stop Switch
· X Maximum Status: Displays “Open” when the extr uder is not
at the maximum X position. Displays “Triggered” when the
extruder reaches the maximum x positio n.
· Y Maximum Status: Displays “Open” when the extruder is not
at the maximum Y position. Display s “Triggered” when the
extruder reaches the maximum Y position.
· Z Minimum Status: Displays “Open” when the extruder is not
at the minimum z position. Displays “Triggered” when the
extruder reaches the minimum Z position.
· Fan Controls
· Open: Turn on the side fan l ocated at the left of the extruders.
· Close: Turn off the side fan located at the left of t he extruders.
· Stepper Motor Controls
· Enable: Unloc k the motor to be controlled manually.
· Disable: Lock t he motor so it does not allow any movem ent.
· LED Color: Change the LED color of the Dreamer.
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· MK 8 Left Plastic Extruder
· Motor Speed (RPM): Select a speed between 2 to 10 RPM for
when performing “Motor Control.”
· Extrude Duratio n: Select dur ation for the motor to move when
performing “Motor Control.”
· Motor Control
· Forward: Trigger the motor to spin clockwise as “Load
Filament.”
· Reverse: Trigger the motor to spin counter-cl ockwise as “ Unload
Filament.”
· Stop: Stop any movement of the motor.
· MK8 Right Plastic Extruder
· *Same as MK8 Left Plastic Extruder.
NOTE: When on “Motor Control”, the righ t extruder spins
counterclockwise for “Forward” and clockwise for “Reverse”.
· Extruder Temperature Controls
· MK 8 Left Target: Enter a te mperature in Celsius for the left
extruder. Click [ Apply ] to apply this setting.
· MK 8 Left Current: Shows the current temperature for the left
extruder.
· MK 8 Right Target: Enter a temperatur e in Celsius f or the right
extruder. Click [ Apply ] to apply this se tting.
· MK 8 Right Current: Shows the current temperature for the ri ght
extruder.
· Platform Tar get : Enter a temperature in Celsius for the platform.
Click [ Apply ] to apply thi s setting.
· Platform Current: Shows the cur rent temperature for the
platform.
NOTE: There are “heating elements” embedded in the
extruders and platform. Applying any temperature lower than
the current temperature would not cool d own the extruders or
platform.
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· Temperature Chart: After applying temperature target, this
chart will show the temperat ure changes over time.
· Update Firmware: Checks and updates Dreamer to the latest
firmware version. The Dreamer must be connected via USB in
order to update.
· On Board Preferences:
· Machine Name: Change the name of the Dreamer.
· Extruder: Select the numbe r of extruder of your printer.
· Extruder Distance: Specify the distance of the extruders.
Default values are X: 34.00mm, and Y: 0.0mm.
· Machine Information:
Displays machine in for mation such as machine type, machine
name, firmware version, and more.
N.Help
· Help Contents
· Check for updates: Checks if there is a newer ver si on of
FlashPrint available.
· Report A Problem
· About: Shows the current version of FlashPrint.
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Chapter 3. First Print
This chapter will provide a step-by-step guide on turnin g a 3D model into a
physical reality. Before proceeding, it is recommended that you go over
prior chapters on loading/unloading fil ament, leveling the build plate, and
the functions and capabilities of Fla shPrint.
There are two m odes of printin g: single-ext rusion and dua l-extrusion. With
single extrusion, you can choose the prin t head t o use for m aking the pri nt.
Dual extrus ion is usef ul if y ou want to pr int dual c olors or c ompl ex model s
that require supporting material.
There are three connectio n methods in orde r to print using t he Dreamer. All
methods, which include USB, SD card, and Wi-Fi are covered in this
chapter.
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3.1 Single & dual-extrusion print
Single-Extrusion Print
1. Open FlashPrint by double-clicking on the icon.
2. Click on [ Load ] and choose an . stl file from hard drive.
3. The object will then be show n on the screen.
4. Click on the object and then click on [ Extruder ], select [ Use left
extruder ].
*Left extruder will be used for illustration purposes.
5. Now the 3D model is ready to be created. Proceed to part C of this
chapter (page 47) to select your connectivity method for printing.
Dual-Extrusion Print
1. Open FlashPrint by double-clicking on the icon.
2. Press [ Load ] and choose an .stl file from hard drive.
3. The object will then be show n on the screen.
4. Press [ Load ] and choose another (or the same) file from hard drive.
5. Click on the object and then click on [ Extruder ], select [ Use left
extruder ].
NOTE: one object is turned to green, that indicates it will be print wit the left
extruder.
6. Now the 3D model is ready to be created. Proceed to part C to select
your connectivity method for printing.
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3.2 Interface Menus
Before introducing the connection methods, let me give you a brief
introduction of Dreamer’s interfaces.
Print
Read the print file from
◆The local memory card
◆The SD card
Return arrow
Select the target print file among the list
◆Print: T o begin printing
◆Copy: To copy the files to the local memor y
card from the SD card.(No available [Copy]
button for printing from local memory card )
◆Delete: To delete the print file
Print interface
◆A bort: To abort the print job.
◆Pause/R esum e:
To suspend or resume the
print job.
◆Tool s: To change filament and set up auto
shutdown during printing.
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Tools in print interface
◆
Filament: To change filament during
printing.
(Note: You need to suspend the operation
first)
◆Wifi: To turn on the Wifi
◆Cancel: To end the tool orders and return to
the print interface.
Preheat
Tap the [Preheat] button to enter the preheat
interface. Tap the [Start] button to heat up to
the setting temperature.
The default temperature is 230℃.
Tap the temperature display bar to set the
temperature.
To set the preheat temperature.
Tap [Yes] to s ave the setting while tap [ No] to
cancel the setting.
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The picture displays the preheat interface. It
shows the actual temperature and the target
temperature. Tap the [Cancel] button to abort
the preheat job.。
Tools
Tap [Tools] to enter tool options.
◆Fi l a m ent: To load/unload the filament.
◆Level: To adjust the build plate.
◆
Home: To make the X, Y and Z axes back
to the zero point.
◆Manual: To manually adjust the positions of
X, Y and Z axes.
◆Setting: To implement relevant function
setups.
◆Status: The check the real-time status of the
printer.
◆About: Information about the printer.
◆Return arrow
Manual adjustment
◆Y+
: The extruder moves to the zero point,
that is, the back of the machine
◆Y-: The extruder moves to the direction
opposite to the Y+.
◆X+: The extruder moves to the zero points,
that is, to the right direction
◆X -
: The extruder moves to the direction
opposite to the X+.
◆Z+: The build plate elevates.
◆Z-: The build plate descends.
◆Return arrow
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Tap [ Setting] to enter the setting interface
◆Language: To set the display language
◆TP Adjust: Adjust the touch screen
◆Factory Reset: Restore factory defaults
◆Fan on: To turn on/off the fan
◆W IF: To turn on/off the W ifi
◆Update: To update the firmware
◆Pul l ey: To choose the pulley type
◆Return arrow
Language:
User can select corresponding language as
required.
TP Adjust
To tap the “+” on the touch screen to adjust
the touch screen.
WIFI:
◆Turn on the WIFI: Turn on the wifi, release
the wifi hotspot and set the wifi on computer
◆Return arrow
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Pulley:
To select the equipped pulley type.
Status:
It displays the real-time status of the extruder
temperature, the platform temperature and the
internal temperature.
About:
It di
splays the basic information about the
device.
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3.3 Methods of printing
Printing from USB
1. Connect Dreamer to the computer using the included USB 2.0 cable.
2. Turn on the Dreamer. Make sure the build plate is leveled and filament
is loaded to th e left extruder. Please refer to page 22 for leveling the
build plate and pages 19 and 21 for loading and unloading filame nt.
3. Select [ Print ] from menu bar, then select [ Connect ].
4. Click on [ Rescan ], then [ Connect ].
5. Now the printer is connected with Flash Pr int. A stat us b ox at the lower
right corner w ill show the temperature of both extruders and the
platform.
6. Press [ Print ] icon, and a printing options screen will appear. Make
sure that “ABS” is selected unde r Material Left. Advanced settings
can be set under [ Mor e Options ] icon. Check the box “Print When
Slice Done” and click [ OK ].
7. Save the file at any loca tion, and the object will start sl ic in g
8. After the object is done slicing, it w ill automatically upload the gcode
to the Dreamer.
9. After the gcode is done uploading, the printer will go into a preheat
phase . The Dreamer will begin printing once it has finished
preheating.
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Printing from SD Card
1. Press [ Print ], and a printing options screen will show up.
2. Make sure that the “Material Left” is selected as “ABS.” Advanced
settings can be set under [ More Options ] icon.
3. Click [ OK ], and save the gcod e file in the SD card.
4. FlashPrint will begin slicing the 3D model.
5. After the object is done slicing, take the SD card from the computer.
Insert it into the SD card slot on the Dreamer.
6. Turn on the Dreamer. Make sure the build plate is leveled (page 22)
and filament is loaded on the left extrud er (page 19).
7. Press [ Print ] and then press the middle SD Card icon.
8. A list of file(s) will show up, press the file that you would like to print,
then press [ Yes ].
9. The printer will now enter preheating ph ase and will start printing
once it finishes preheating
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Printing via Wi-Fi
1. Turn on Dreamer. Make sure the build plate is leveled (page 22) and
filament is l oaded on the left extruder ( pa ge 19) .
2. Turn on Wi-Fi on the Dreamer. To do this, press [ Tools ],
[ Setting ], [ WIFI ], and [ WIFI ON].
3. A connection called“USR-WIFI232-G2”
can be found on the
list of available
networks. C onne c t to this ne twor k.
4. Open your Internet browser. Type in
“10.10.100.254” and hit [ Enter ] on your
keyboard. Enter the username and password
to login. The default username and password
are both “admin.” The control panel will
appear after a succe ssf ul lo gin.
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5. Click on [ Work Mode ] and choose
“AP+STA mode” and save it.
6. Click on [ STA Setting ], select
a working network, enter the
corresponding password and save.
7. Resta rt the interface, c lose the page,
turn off the Dreamer, disconnect from
the network, and wait for 1 0 seconds.
8. Turn the Dreamer back on and
connect to the Dreamer network. In
FlashPrint, choose [ Print ] from menu
and select [ Connect ].
9. Under “Connection Mode”, select
Wi-Fi, and enter the “
IP Address,
Port” as shown on printer LCD screen.
Then, click [ Connect ].
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10. Now the Dreamer is connected with FlashPrint. A status box at the
lower right corner will show the tempe rature of both extruders and the
Platform.
11. In FlashPrint, click [ Print ]. A printing options screen will appear
Make sure that “ABS” is selected under “Material Left.”
Advanced settings can be set by clicking on [ More Options ].
12. Check the box of “Print When Slice Done,” and hit [ OK ].
13. Save the file at any location, and the object will start slicing.
14. After the object is done slicing, it will automatically upload the gcode
to the Dreamer.
15. After the gco de is done up loa d ing, the printer will go i nt o a pre hea t
phase. The Dreamer will start print ing once preheating is finished.
NOTE: Print ing from SD card is unavailable when WIFI is ON.
Printing with Support
1. If the 3D model has excessive over-hang, then support wil l be needed.
2. In the Slice options screen, select fro m “Supports” the left or right
extruder.
3. Click [ OK ] to begin slicing.
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Chapter 4: Other Information
4.1.Supports and Service
Our team of knowledgeable staff is on standby and ready to help you
overcome any challenges you may have with your Dreamer. If your issue
or question is not covered in the user manual, you can check our
knowledge base or contact us by e-mail or phone. We also have a very
active FlashForge community group on Google with a wealth of
information and very helpful members.
There are sol uti ons a nd i nstr ucti ons t o co mm on is sues that c an be fou nd i n
our knowledge base. Have a look first as most basic questions are
answered there.
41
http://www.ff3dp.com
The FlashForge Google Group is a community forum made up of fellow
FlashForge users who share tips and tricks and help each other in
overcoming c halle nges wi th 3D pr intin g. The forum can be acce ssed at the
following link:
https://groups.google.com/d/forum/flashforge
The FlashForge support team can be reached by e-mail or phone between
the hours of 8:00 a .m. to 5:00 p.m. PST M onda y thr ou gh Saturday. In case
you contact us during after-hours, your inquiry will be answered the
following bus ine s s day.
E-Mail:
support@sz3dp.com
Tel: +86-579-82273989
Address: No.518 Xiangyuan Road, Jinhua, China.
*When contacting support, please have your serial number ready.
The serial number is a bar code on the back of your Dreamer
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4.2 References
4.2.1 Parameters:
Name Dreamer
Extruder Number 2
Technique Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Screen 3.5’’ color IPS Touch Screen
Build Size 230×150×140mm
Layer Thickness 0.1 - 0.5mm
Build Precision
±0.2mm
Located Precision Z axis 0.0025mm; XY axis 0.011mm
Filament Diameter 1.75mm
Nozzle Diameter 0.4mm
Current Speed 24CC/Hour
software FlashPrint
Support Formats
stl、obj
OS Windows Mac OS
Printer Size 485×400×335mm
Weight 11Kg
Input Voltage 100-240V, 50-60Hz, 300W
Data Tr a nsmission
USB、SD card、wifi
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4.2.2 Glossary
Build Plate: The glass surface on which the D reamer builds an object.
Build Platform: The metal frame that supports Dreamer’s build plate.
Build Plate Tape: The blue tape that covers Dreamer’s build plate so that
the object can adhere to the build plate well.
Extruder: The device that draws the filament from the spool, melts it and
pushes it through a n ozz le on to th e bui l d plat e.
Filament Spool: The plastic spool that carries Flashforge filament
Flashprint: The slice software created by Flashforge that allows users to
load, view, rotate, move and slice your 3D models
Nozzle: The extruder head from which melted Flashforge filament comes
out onto the build plate.
PLA: Polylactic acid filament. Dreamer PLA is the source material from
which you make objects on the Dreamer.
Touch Screen: The liquid-crystal display at Dreamer’s top front, with
which the users can manipulate the Dreamer.
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4.2.3 Information about errors
Errors related
to temperature
1. Temperature reading fails. Plea se
check the wiring.
2. Temperature reaches limit. Please
check the wiring.
3. Abnormal heating. Please check t he
wiring.
4. Temperature is reducing. Please
check the wiring.
5. Wrong temperature read ing. Pl e a se
check the wiring.
6. Unknown error
Dialogue box
pops up
File open
failed.
File open failed. Information
bar appears
Error occurs
to the file!
Error File! Information
bar appears
File size is not
appropriate!
File not matched! Information
bar appears
Loading...