User Guide English Objet500 - Connex 3 3-D Printer System
Copyright Copyright © 2012 Objet Ltd. All rights reserved. This documentation contains proprietary information of Objet Ltd. This information is supplied solely to assist authorized users of Objet500 ‐ Connex 3 3‐D printing systems. No part of this document may be used for other purposes, and it may not be disclosed to other parties. The specifications on which this document is based are subject to change without notice.
Patents This product is covered by one or more of the following U.S. patents: 5,386,500 6,259,962 6,569,373 6,658,314 6,850,334 7,183,335 7,209,797 7,225,045 7,364,686 7,369,915 7,479,510 7,500,846 7,604,768 7,628,857 7,658,976 7,725,209 Objet Ltd. http://www.objet.com DOC‐07000 Revision Rev.
Contents 1 About This Guide Using This Guide ............................................................................................................................... 1–2 For More Information........................................................................................................................ 1–2 Terms Used in This Guide................................................................................................................ 1–3 2 Safety Safety Features .....................
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Objet Studio Interface........................................................................................................................ 5–3 Ribbon Commands.............................................................................................................................. 5–5 Objet Studio Commands Menu......................................................................................................... 5–7 Model Tree Pane .............
User Guide Getting Additional Objet Studio Assistance................................................................................ 5–55 Monitoring and Managing Print Jobs ........................................................................................... 5–56 Job Manager Screen .......................................................................................................................... 5–56 Setting the Printer Connection................................................................
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About This Guide Using This Guide................................................................................. 2 For More Information ......................................................................... 2 Terms Used in This Guide.................................................................. 3 DOC-07000 Rev.
About This Guide Using This Guide This user guide provides instructions for installing, operating and maintaining Objet 3‐D printing systems. It explains how to use features, and provides practical examples to guide you as you use the system. The text and figures in this guide are based on the Objet500 ‐ Connex 3 3‐D printer, printer software version 58.1.0 and Objet Studio software version 9.2.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Terms Used in This Guide build tray In Objet Studio: The surface displayed on the screen that represents the actual build tray in the printer. In the printer: The surface upon which models are produced. cleaning fluid Cleanser for flushing model feed tubes and the printing block, used to completely remove model material from the system before loading another type of material in the printer. The cleaning fluid is supplied in model‐material cartridges.
About This Guide OBJTF (Objet Tray Format) The extension of a file that contains all of the information needed for a model‐printing job on Objet 3‐D printers. An objtf file is used to send a print job to an Objet 3‐D printer. OBJZF (Objet Z Format) The extension of a compressed “wrapper” file containing all of the files used in an Objet Studio build tray. Using objzf files, a printing job can be saved as a single file, for convenient storage and transfer.
Safety Safety Features..................................................................................... 2 Symbols and Warning Labels ............................................................ 3 Safety Guidelines................................................................................. 4 Printer Installation ................................................................................ 4 Printer Operation ..................................................................................
Safety Safety Features Objet 3‐D printers are designed to comply with CE and FCC standards. They are equipped with the following safety features: Cover interlock switch The power supplied to the UV lamp and the motion motors is turned off when the cover is opened. WARNING: Do not defeat (override) the interlock switch. Doing so could result in serious personal injury. If the interlock switch does not function correctly, do not use the printer, and contact your service provider.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Symbols and Warning Labels This following table lists the warning labels located on or in Objet printers. Warning Symbol DOC-07000 Rev. A Meaning Location Comments Hazard (general) On the name plate on the back of the printer. Read the instructions in this document before operating the printer. Hot surface On the print‐head block. Risk of burns. Do not touch this surface after printing. High voltage Near the UV lamp connectors. Near the power‐ supply enclosures.
Safety Safety Guidelines The following general guidelines, together with the instructions provided throughout this user guide, ensure user safety while operating and maintaining the Objet system. If the system is not operated as specified, the userʹs safety may be compromised! Printer Installation ¾ Installation and removal of the printer should only be done by qualified service personnel. ¾ Connect the printer to the electric outlet using a power cord that is safety‐certified.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Model and Support Materials Model and support materials are made of chemical substances. Although precautions must be taken when handling these materials directly, all model and support materials used by the Objet system are handled in sealed cartridges. Normally, operators of the printer should never be directly exposed to hazardous materials. In the unlikely event of a leak or spill, follow the instructions that are included with the printing‐material cartridge used.
Safety First Aid for Working with Printing Materials In general, try to avoid direct contact with uncured printing material. If skin or eyes come into contact with it, wash the area immediately and thoroughly with water, and follow these first‐aid instructions. Contact with Skin If uncured printing material comes in contact with skin, wash the affected area immediately and thoroughly with soap and cool water, then remove contaminated clothing.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Waste Disposal Fully cured printed models can be disposed of as ordinary office trash. However, special care is required when handling printer waste. ¾ When removing the waste container from the Objet printer, wear neoprene or nitrile gloves. ¾ To prevent liquid waste from splashing into the eyes, wear safety goggles. ¾ Liquid waste from the Objet printer is classified as hazardous industrial waste.
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Introducing the Objet 3-D Printing System Work Configurations .......................................................................... 3 Source Files........................................................................................... 4 STL Files ................................................................................................. 4 SLC Files ................................................................................................. 4 Printing Materials...........................
Introducing the Objet 3-D Printing System Welcome to Connex The advanced capabilities of the Objet 3‐D printing system are made possible by PolyJet Matrix™ technology, specially developed by Objet for printing models simultaneously with different model materials.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Work Configurations The 3‐D printing system can be set up as a single‐station system or as a multi‐station system. When connected to a local computer network, the system can serve multiple users. In such configurations, each user workstation (client) prepares files with Objet Studio software for production. A server (host), typically next to the 3‐D printer, acts as a job manager that sends production jobs to the printer for production.
Introducing the Objet 3-D Printing System Source Files Objet 3‐D printing systems produce three‐dimensional models designed with most 3‐D CAD tools and with other job‐specific 3‐D applications. Objet systems accept: • STL Files • SLC Files Objet systems feature the capability of producing both types of model files simultaneously. STL Files STL is short for Standard Triangulation Language.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Storage Materials used for printing models with Objet printers are made of resins, which are composed of reactive monomers and oligomers. Although printing materials are supplied in sealed, UV‐proof cartridges, care must be taken when storing and handling them. Follow these guidelines to protect operators and the environment, and to ensure optimum results. • To ensure product stability, do not allow these materials to come into contact with metal.
Introducing the Objet 3-D Printing System Work Environment Extreme heat and humidity conditions can adversely affect the operation of the Objet 3‐D printer. Therefore, it is recommended that you use ventilation or air‐conditioning systems, if necessary, to keep the work area within the following ranges: • 18°–° C (64°–° F) • 30%–70% relative humidity 3–6 DOC-07000 Rev.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Workstation Requirements The following tables list the requirements for computer components used with Objet 3‐D printer software.
Introducing the Objet 3-D Printing System Preparing Files for Use with Objet 3-D Printing Systems Before using files with Objet 3‐D printing systems, you must convert them in your CAD program to either STL files or SLC files. (For an explanation of these file formats, see “Source Files” on page 3‐4.) After converting the model files, it is recommended that you check them for defects in an STL‐repair application (such as Magics, by Materialise) before opening them in Objet Studio and producing the model.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Objet Studio Software Objet Studio software for the Objet 3‐D printing system consists of two main screens: • Tray Settings / Model Settings • Job Manager Tray Settings / Model Settings In the Tray Settings and Model Settings screens, you prepare source files for production in Objet 3‐D printers. Objet Studio offers you a wide variety of file‐preparation options, but always consists of the following basic procedure: 1. Inserting one or more objects on the build tray 2.
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Installing Objet Software How to Install Software for the Objet 3‐D Printing System .......... 2 DOC-07000 Rev.
Installing Objet Software How to Install Software for the Objet 3-D Printing System The Objet Studio setup wizard guides you when installing the Objet software. During installation, you must choose to install either the server (“host”) application or the client application. To install Objet software: 1. Insert the Objet Studio CD into the disk drive. 2. Right‐click the Start button and select Explore (or use any other method for displaying files on the computer). 3.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 7. In the Select Features screen, select the required installation option. Select Objet Studio for a server computer... • if you are installing Objet Studio on a server (“host”) computer— the computer directly connected to an Objet printer. • if you are installing Objet Studio on a standalone (off‐line) computer.
Installing Objet Software Figure 4-3: Objet Studio installation-folder selection 9. In the Confirm Installation screen, click Next to begin installation. Installation begins and a progress bar appears, showing the progress of the installation process. Figure 4-4: Installation progress bar 4–4 DOC-07000 Rev.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide When the Objet program installation is complete, the final InstallShield Wizard screen appears. Figure 4-5: Final installation screen Sometimes, you must restart the computer to complete the software installation. You can do so now or at another time. Note: Make sure to remove the CD from the disk drive before restarting the computer.
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Using Objet Studio Objet Studio Interface ......................................................................... 3 Preparing Models for Production ..................................................... 7 Placing Objects on the Build Tray....................................................... 8 Opening Objet Tray Files ................................................................... 12 Splitting Objects into Components................................................... 19 Model‐Material Settings........
Objet Studio Commands menu Quick Access toolbar Help Standard toolbar Active ribbon Model Tree pane Job Manager tab The Objet Studio interface consists of two main screens: • Tray Settings—for arranging models and preparing them for printing. This screen is described below. • Job Manager—for monitoring and managing print jobs. This screen is described in “Monitoring and Managing Print Jobs” on page 76. Each is controlled by menus and icons on its own ribbon.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide The ribbon, colors used, and several other interface features can be customized. How to change the appearance of the interface is explained in “Customizing Objet Studio” on page 64. DOC-07000 Rev.
Using Objet Studio Arrange Tray Group Ribbon Commands The following table lists the Tray Settings and Model Settings ribbon command groups, and shows when they are enabled, and where they appear. Purpose When enabled Setting display colors. Always. Selecting perspective and zoom level. Models are on the build tray. Choose to select a plane. Models are on the build tray. Change the perspective of the active pane. Models are on the build tray. Assigning model material.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Group Purpose When enabled Tray Settings Ribbon Model Settings Ribbon Cutting, A model is copying, pasting selected. and deleting models. Moving, rotating A model is and resizing selected. models. • Assigning a • material to a model or shell. Separating a model into shells. A model is selected. Assigning model A model is selected. finish and setting support strength/ “hollow.” Setting a model’s A model is unit of measure selected. (millimeters or inches).
Using Objet Studio Objet Studio Commands Menu Clicking the Objet icon (in the upper‐left corner) opens the Objet Studio Commands menu. This menu displays basic application commands and options. The Options button opens a dialog box for customizing Objet Studio. The Model Tree pane lists the objects placed on the build tray in a parent‐ child hierarchy. By default, the pane “floats”— that is, you can move it to another position on the screen and resize it.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Preparing Models for Production Model preparation involves the following basic steps: 1. Place objects or assemblies on the build tray. 2. If necessary, manipulate the object’s orientation and position. 3. Select the materials and model finish. Just as Objet printers can produce different models on the build tray using different materials, you can produce components of a model with different materials. To do this, each part of the model must be a separate stl file.
Using Objet Studio Placing Objects on the Build Tray To place an object on the build tray using stl, slc or files: 1. Open the Insert dialog box— • From the Object menu, select Insert. or— • On the Arrange Tray ribbon, click . or— • Right‐click on the build tray, and select Insert from the context menu. The Insert dialog box appears. 2. In the Look in field, display the appropriate folder. 3. In the Files of type field, select the file types to display (stl, slc, ). 4.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Figure 5-7: Assembly check box selected—stl files are placed as an assembly Figure 5-8: Assembly check box not selected—stl files are placed as parts The Model Settings ribbon is displayed when objects are placed on the build tray. 5. Select any of the following options, as required: • Units—Millimeters or inches for the object’s units of measure. The 3‐D file contains the objectʹs proportions, but not its units of measure.
Using Objet Studio Note: The Extents values displayed in the Insert dialog box’s Coordinates field, represent the maximum dimensions of the object on each axis. These dimensions correspond to the virtual “bounding box” surrounding the object see figure 5-49 on page 36). 6. Click Insert. Objet Studio places the object on the build tray, and in the model tree. Model Tree pane Model Toolbar The Model Settings ribbon is displayed when objects are placed on the build tray.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Opening files Before placing files on the build tray, Objet Studio must extract the component stl files together with information about their orientation and materials. To do this, Objet Studio creates a folder with the same name as the file, in the same location. Figure 5-9: Insert dialog box ( file) DOC-07000 Rev.
Using Objet Studio Opening Objet Tray Files You can open trays that were saved as objtf files, for example, a tray you saved while preparing it for printing, and now you want to continue preparing it. To place an object saved as an Objet Tray File (objtf) file on the build tray: 1. From the File group, click . or— From the Objet Studio Commands, select Open. The Open dialog box is displayed. 2. Select the desired file, and make sure that it appears in the File name field.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Stl file loading preference If there are identically named stl files in more than one location, you need to ensure that the correct component stl files are linked to the objtf file. For example, if there are identically named stl files on one drive and on a flash drive (this can occur if you copy the original files to a working folder), you can set the default location from which files are loaded. To set the Load Order: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options.
Using Objet Studio Quick-Access Model Commands Model Toolbar You can access common commands for working with objects on the build tray with the convenient Model Toolbar and context menus. Select an object in the tray to display the Model Toolbar that contains icons to perform common tasks. The table below describes the Model Toolbar icons. Icon Description Applies a matte finish to the model. Applies a glossy finish to the model.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Copying and Pasting Objects If you need to duplicate objects on the build tray, you can, of course, insert the same object from its file more than once. An easier way, however, is to copy and paste the object. You can copy objects from the build tray or the model tree—individual or multiple parts or assemblies. The objects copied remain in the Windows clipboard until you paste them onto the build tray.
Using Objet Studio Selecting Objects To manipulate an object on the build tray or assign characteristics to it (model material, building style etc.), you must first select the object. You select an object by clicking it, either on the tray or in the model tree. Its image on the build tray changes color (to light blue, by default) and its name is highlighted in the model tree.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide To split an object into an assembly of component parts: 1. If the object is not displayed, place it on the build tray by inserting its stl file (see “Placing Objects on the Build Tray” on page 8). The object appears—on the build tray and in the model tree pane—as a single part. It is assigned, by default, the “primary” model material. (If Objet Studio is configured with a secondary material, you can assign it—or a digital material—to the entire object.
Using Objet Studio Objet Studio splits the object into an assembly of component parts, each a separate stl file (“shell”). The object appears—on the build tray and in the model tree—as an assembly of parts (“shells”). You can assign each part a different model material (This is explained in “Model‐Material Settings” on page 18).
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide object already on the build tray whose materials do not match the material assignment in the objdf file, you cannot place the new object on the tray. To print this object, you have the following options: Instead of printing it on the same build tray, print the new object as a separate job.
Using Objet Studio Color selection pallete You can display the material color options as a color pallete. From the Tools menu, select Color material selection and then Select from color pallete.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Surface Finish Models can be printed with a matte or glossy surface finish. To create a matte finish, the printer surrounds models with a thin layer of support material. To set the model finish: 1. Select the model. 2.
Using Objet Studio Positioning Objects on the Build Tray To produce models efficiently and with the required finish, it is important to carefully position objects on the build tray. Objet Studio supports the automatic positioning of objects. However, you should check to make sure that the objects are orientated logically for your needs, according to the considerations explained in “Model Orientation” on page 5‐32.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide You can change the default setting, so that automatic orientation is not applied unless you select the Orient Automatically check box each time you place an object on the build tray. To do this, see “Default Settings” on page 70. DOC-07000 Rev.
Using Objet Studio Automatic Placement After placing several objects on the build tray, you can let Objet Studio arrange them on the tray for printing. This ensures that the objects are positioned properly, and that they will be printed in the shortest time and with a minimum of material. To automatically arrange objects on the build tray: ¾ On the Tray Settings ribbon, click . or— From the Tools menu, select Automatic Placement. The effects of automatic positioning are shown in the figures below.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Model Orientation The orientation of models on the build tray affects how quickly and efficiently they will be produced by the 3‐D printer, where and how much support material is used, and whether or not model parts will have a glossy finish. Therefore, you should consider a variety of factors when deciding how to place models on the tray, using the following positioning rules. X-Y-Z Rule This rule considers a modelʹs outer dimensions.
Using Objet Studio Manipulating Objects on the Build Tray Positioning Objects on the Z-Axis When you use the automatic positioning option to arrange objects on the build tray, the objects are positioned directly on the tray. If you do not insert objects with automatic positioning, they often appear either above or below the tray. In practice, the Objet system prints all models on the build tray on a onemillimeter bed of support material.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 2. Select Dynamic check to identify: • • • • invalid object placement while placing objects—On Drop selected. invalid object placement after moving objects—While Drag selected. objects placed beyond the tray’s boundaries—Outside Tray selected. objects that overlap—Object Collision selected.
Using Objet Studio Using a Grid to Position Objects Displaying a grid on the image of the build tray can be useful when positioning objects. You can make use of this feature by selecting the following menu options. Menu Option Result Tools > Grid Displays a grid on the build tray. Tools > Snap to grid When moving the object, it aligns with the nearest grid line. Tools > Options > Grid Enables you to change the grid origin (X‐ and Y‐axis meeting point) and appearance.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Measurement Units 3‐D files contain an objectʹs proportions, but not its units of measure. Therefore, make sure to correctly select either millimeters or inches when inserting an object. Otherwise, the size of the object on the build tray will be either much too large or much too small. To set the measurement units when inserting an object: ¾ In the Insert dialog box, Units field, select Millimeter or Inch: To change units of measurement on the Model Settings ribbon: 1.
Using Objet Studio Setting Model Dimensions You can change the object’s dimensions by changing the coordinates in the Dimensions group on the Model Settings ribbon. Figure 5-25: Dimensions on the Model Settings ribbon Note: You can change the height of the objects on the build tray only if this is allowed by the Objet Studio settings. Repositioning Objects You can manually move and rotate an object on the build tray with the arrow keys, or by dragging it with the mouse.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 3. If you click on a corner of the frame, the cursor changes to indicate that the object can be rotated. Figure 5-27: Manually rotating an object 4. Manipulate the object with the arrow keys or with the mouse. Using the Transform Dialog Box You can make precise changes to an object by changing the properties in the Transform dialog box. To access the Transform dialog box (when an object is selected): • Click on the Model Toolbar or on the Model Settings ribbon.
Using Objet Studio Changing an Object’s Orientation There are several methods for changing the orientation of objects on the build tray. To rotate an object: ¾ Select the object and use the Object menu options. To re-align an object’s plane: or— From the Tools menu, select Plane Alignment > Select Plane. 5. Click on part of an object on the build tray. The selected plane is displayed. Figure 5-29: Aligning by plane 6. On the Alignment toolbar, click an appropriate icon to change the alignment.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide To unfreeze an object: ¾ Select the object and click (to de‐select it). DOC-07000 Rev.
Using Objet Studio Display Options Viewing Objects From the View menu, you can change the way objects are displayed. The default method for displaying models on the build tray is as solid (“shaded”) objects. The other display options are WireFrame and Points. To display the build tray in WireFrame view: ¾ From the View menu, select WireFrame. To revert to the shaded view: ¾ From the View menu, select Shaded. 5–34 DOC-07000 Rev.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide To display objects as boxes, showing their maximum dimensions instead of their shape: ¾ From the View menu, select Display Bounding Box. Figure 5-31: Model displayed with bounding box To display the area around objects needed for support material (to produce a matte finish): ¾ From the View menu, select Display Thickening Box. Figure 5-32: Model displayed with thickening box To display the maximum build height: ¾ From the View menu, select Display Tray 3D Box.
Using Objet Studio Figure 5-34: Screen layout icons Single View 4 Views Tray Perspective is the default screen layout. displays perspective, top, front and right views. The default perspective of the build tray is “isometric.” You can change the perspective of the active window with one of ten options. To change the perspective of the build tray in the active window: 1. On the Tray Settings ribbon, open the Perspective flyout toolbar. Figure 5-35: Perspective flyout toolbar 2.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Loading Large Files Very large stl files can be slow to load and may be difficult to manipulate easily on the build tray. If this is the case, you can display just an image of the object on the build tray without loading the entire file. The stl file itself is not changed, and the complete file is sent to the printer. To display an image of stl files when you place objects on the build tray: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options, and display the Settings tab.
Using Objet Studio 6. Set display options when the object is being moved (Display while changing view): • Bounding Box—A box representing the object’s maximum dimensions is displayed. • Adaptive Polygon Reduction—Varying degrees of polygon reduction are applied, as necessary. • Entire Object—No polygon reduction is applied. 7. To save these settings, so that they will be applied every time you place this object on the build tray, click Save Polygon Reduction Data. 8.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Handling Completed Trays After you have properly placed all objects on the build tray, you save the tray as an objtf file, which is sent to the 3‐D printer for production. But before saving the tray, you can check that there would be no problem producing it. You can also calculate how much material would be consumed during production and how much time this would take.
Using Objet Studio Production Estimates Objet Studio enables you to calculate the time and material resources needed for producing trays before sending them to the printer. The time it takes Objet Studio to make this calculation depends on the number of objects on the tray and their complexity. Calculating the production estimate for a full tray could take up to 15 minutes, depending on your computer’s specifications.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide If the build tray file has not been saved, the Save As dialog box opens for you to save it now. Objet Studio checks if there is a problem with the positioning of objects on the tray. If so, the affected objects are displayed with special colors (see “Tray Validation” on page 51), and the following warning message appears. To cancel the Build command so you can correct the problem, click No.To print the models as they are positioned on the tray, click Yes.
Using Objet Studio Applying Additional Objet Studio Features Dividing Objects You can use the Split Object feature to produce objects larger than the tray area by dividing the model into separate parts. With this feature, you produce only a specific section of a model. To split an object: 1. Select the object. 2. From the Object menu, select Split. 3. In the Split Object dialog box, enter the values to determine how Objet Studio will divide the object.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Choosing the Support Strength When producing models, support material fills some hollow and empty sections (see “Model Orientation” on page 5‐32). Objet Studio allows you to adjust the strength of the structure formed with the support material. This adjustment is useful when producing either large/massive models or small/ delicate models. For most purposes, the default setting provides adequate support strength.
Using Objet Studio “Hollow”— Filling Models with Support Material Many objects placed on the tray from stl files are “solid.” This means that, when printed, the model will be completely filled with model material. Often, especially with large objects, this is unnecessary. Instead, the model can be filled with support material, which is less costly.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Displaying the Cross Section of Objects The Section feature enables you to view the interior of an object by “slicing” it on any axis. You can then manipulate the object to inspect the interior from different angles. This may be important for deciding on the type of support necessary when producing the model (see “Choosing the Support Strength” on page 5‐59).
Using Objet Studio Saving the Screen Display as an Image File You can save the image displayed in the active viewing screen as a graphic file. To save the screen display as an image: 1. Press Ctrl+B. or— From the Objet Studio Commands Menu menu, select Save Bitmap. The Save Bitmap dialog box opens. 2. At the top of the dialog box, select the appropriate folder. 3. At the bottom of the dialog box, enter a file name. 4. Open the Save as type pull‐down menu, and select the file format. 5. Click Save.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Exporting and Importing Objet Build Trays When you save build trays in Objet Studio, they are saved as objtf files. These files contain instructions to Objet Studio and to Objet printers for displaying and producing the stl files used on the tray. To conveniently save all of the files that comprise the build tray, for storing the job, or for transferring it to another location, Objet Studio compresses them into one objzf file.
Using Objet Studio Customizing Objet Studio You can customize Objet Studio to suit your particular working needs and preferences. Features that you can customize include: • • • • • Creating a Quick Access Toolbar Creating a quick‐access toolbar for frequently used commands. Changing the position of the Quick Access toolbar. Minimizing the ribbon. Changing the Objet Studio color theme. Configuring default settings for objects placed on the build tray.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide To hide the ribbons: 1. Right‐click anywhere on the ribbon or on the menu bar, or in the Objet Studio Commands Menu . 2. Select Minimize the Ribbon. The ribbons disappear, but you can temporarily display the ribbon icons by clicking Tray Settings or Job Manager on the menu bar. When you next click outside of the ribbon, it disappears again. To return the permanent ribbon display: ¾ Repeat the steps above to cancel Minimize the Ribbon. DOC-07000 Rev.
Using Objet Studio Display Colors You can customize some of the colors used for displaying Objet Studio screens and for displaying objects on the build tray. To change the colors used in Objet Studio screens: 1. From the Tools menu, select Define Colors. The Define Colors dialog box appears. 2. In the Define Colors dialog box, click the color patch you want to change: • Tray Color. • Background Colors. • Selection Color. 3. In the Color dialog box, select one of the Basic colors.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Changing Color Themes Objet Studio offers a choice of four background color themes—blue, black, silver and aqua. Figure 5-49: Background color themes To change the color theme: • From the Style menu, select one of the options. Keyboard Shortcuts You can define shortcut keys for frequently used commands. To define shortcut keys: 1. Above the ribbon tabs, click . The Customize Quick Access Toolbar menu opens. 2. Select More Commands.
Using Objet Studio Professional Mode Features Some advanced features of Objet Studio are only accessible in Professional Mode. To see the current Objet Studio setting: ¾ Open the Tools menu. If Professional Mode is checked, advanced features are displayed. To change the Professional Mode setting: 1. From the Tools menu, select Professional Mode.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Default Settings You can control the default settings of several Objet Studio features from the Advanced tab of the Options dialog box. To display the Options dialog box ¾ From the Tools menu, select Options. or— In the Objet Studio Commands Menu, click Options. By default, when Objet Studio places objects on the build tray, it orients them optimally, for the shortest printing time.
Using Objet Studio Open GL Driver Configuration The OpenGL driver displays 3‐D graphics on your screen. There is normally no reason to adjust its settings. If you suspect a problem with the way Objet Studio displays objects, you can use the OpenGL Driver Configuration tool to check and configure the driver settings. To access the OpenGL Driver Configuration dialog box: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options. or— In the Objet Studio Commands Menu, click Options. 2.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide To perform a test of the driver configuration and enter the suggested pixel format ID: 1. Select Choose Format. 2. Click Test. Objet Studio returns the recommended pixel format ID. Figure 5-52: Recommended pixel format ID 3. Click OK. 4. In the OpenGL Driver Configuration dialog box, select Pixel Format ID and enter this number. 5. Click Apply. 6. Display the other pixel format tab, and repeat this procedure. DOC-07000 Rev.
Using Objet Studio Getting Additional Objet Studio Assistance Objet Studio Help provides on‐screen information, as you work. To view Objet Studio Help: • Press F1. or— On the standard toolbar, click and then click Objet Studio Help. Figure 5-53: Help options You can also view information on the following subjects: • Troubleshooting opens a list of error messages and their explanations.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide About Objet Studio The About Objet Studio tab shows your Objet Studio version number, Objet’s support email address and basic information about your computer. Figure 5-55: About Objet Studio Materials Module The Materials Module tab shows: 1. Module version—the latest patch installed. If there are no patches installed, the module version is the same as the Objet Studio version number. 2. Module date—the date of the latest patch was created.
Using Objet Studio Feature License The Feature License tab shows the Objet Studio features for which you are licensed. Click to expand the license details for each feature. Figure 5-57: Feature License Modes Modes shows the printing modes for which your version of Objet Studio is licensed, such as High Speed, High Quality and Digital Material. Available modes may vary, depending on your printer model.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Monitoring and Managing Print Jobs In the Job Manager screen of Objet Studio, you monitor and manage jobs sent to the printer. There are a few differences between Objet Studio on client workstations and on the computer connected directly to the 3‐D printer—the server workstation. • Objet Studio installed on a client computer only displays the queue and status for jobs sent to the 3‐D printer server from that computer, and it allows the user to edit only these jobs.
Using Objet Studio Jobs Queue On the server, the Jobs Queue lists the last 15 jobs sent from client computers. On client workstations, the Jobs Queue lists jobs sent from that computer to the printer server. Information for each of the queued jobs is displayed, including the job status. Status Meaning Waiting Printing of this job has not started. Building Printing of this job is in progress. Stopped Printing of this job was interrupted.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Setting the Printer Connection When an Objet 3‐D printer is installed, the server computer is connected to that printer. Normally, there should be no reason to change this connection. Occasionally, however, you may need to reset the connection, to connect the server to another printer, or to use Objet Studio in off‐line mode (without a printer connection). To set (or change) the printer connection: 1. On the Job Manager ribbon, in the 3D Printer group, click . 2.
Using Objet Studio Off-line Mode You can use Objet Studio to prepare trays for printing in off‐line mode, on a remote computer or when the printer connection is not available. You also use off‐line mode to prepare trays for printing with other printers. In this case, if Objet Studio is currently connected to a printer, you must change to off‐line mode by removing this connection. To disconnect Objet Studio from the printer: 1. On the Job Manager ribbon, in the 3D Printer group, click . 2.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide To change the Objet Studio off-line configuration: 1. In the Set Printer dialog box, select a printer type. 2. Click OK. DOC-07000 Rev.
Using Objet Studio Setting the Remote Printer Connection (Client Mode) When you open Objet Studio for the first time in a client installation, you are prompted to connect to an Objet server computer that sends jobs to a 3D printer. To do this, the server computer must be operating and connected to the local network. To set (or change) the connection to the server-computer: 1. On the Job Manager ribbon, in the 3D Printer group, click . 2.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide The following operations are available on the Job Manager ribbon: Group Icon Purpose 3D Printer Client: Sets the server connection. See “Setting the Remote Printer Connection (Client Mode)” on page 82. Server: Sets the printer connection. See “Setting the Printer Connection” on page 78. Configures options for printer alerts. See “Configuring User Alerts” on page 85. Queue Server: Moves a job to the head of the Jobs Queue. Client: Disabled. See “Jobs Queue” on page 77.
Using Objet Studio Figure 5-64: Icons on pop-up toolbar (client workstation) When you position the cursor over an item, a tooltip displays the name of the command. Figure 5-65: Job menu options (server) 5–66 DOC-07000 Rev.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Configuring User Alerts Objet Studio can alert you (and others) to the status of jobs sent to the server for printing. This is especially useful during long printing jobs, when the operator is away from the printer. The following events can be reported: • The level of model or support material is low. • The job was interrupted. • The job was completed successfully.
Using Objet Studio 3. Click Details. Figure 5-68: Event selection for alerts 4. In the Reports Events dialog box, select the alert events and click OK. 5. In the Notifications dialog box, click OK. Printing the Tray If there is a job in the Jobs Queue, it is sent automatically to the Objet printer—as long as it is on, there is a connection to the printer, and the printer is on line.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Extended Tray Preview In this window, you can view the tray from different angles and magnifications without leaving the Job Manager screen. In addition to displaying the selected job in the Tray Preview pane, you can open an enlarged build tray window. To display the build tray window: 1. Select a job in the Jobs Queue or the History list. 2. Click the Tray Preview pane. Figure 5-69: Job Preview • To change the tray magnification, turn the mouse wheel.
Using Objet Studio Restarting Jobs You can restart jobs from the Jobs Queue and the History list. To restart a job: 1. Select the job. 2. Click the Restart icon . The job status changes to “Waiting” (in the Jobs Queue). Resuming Jobs If the printing process is stopped or interrupted, you may be able to continue printing the job from the point where printing stopped. To resume a job: 1. Select the job. 2. Click the Resume icon . Scheduling Jobs You can schedule jobs to be printed at a future time.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 4. Click Save. Modifying the Job Manager Screen You can change the size of the sections of the Job Manager screen, by dragging the panel edges. This applies to: • the Jobs Queue panel • the Time panel • the History panel Similarly, you can change the way the screen area is divided between the main section (Jobs Queue/Time/History) and the panels on the right side of the screen.
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Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Starting the Printer .............................................................................. 2 Loading Model and Support Cartridges.......................................... 4 Producing Models ............................................................................... 5 Printer Interface Color Key.................................................................. 7 Printing Indicators ......................................................
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Printer cover Storage compartment Materials cabinet Figure 6-1: The Objet500 - Connex 3 3-D Printer Starting the Printer CAUTION! • Do not attempt to operate the Objet printer before being trained by an Objet customer-support representative. • Observe all safety warnings and follow the safety guidelines described in chapter 2. 1. Turn on the main power switch, located at the back of the printer.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 2. After the computer boots, log in to Windows and launch the printer‐ control application: • On the computer desktop, double‐click the Objet printer icon. or— • From the Start menu, select Objet > Objet500. The Objet printer interface screen opens (see figure 6‐2). All monitoring and controlling of the printer is done from this interface.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Loading Model and Support Cartridges Objet500 ‐ Connex 3 printers use six cartridges of model material and two cartridges of support material, each weighing 3.6 kilograms when full. A graphical representation of the cartridges loaded and their current weight appears in the printer interface (see figure 6‐3). The materials cabinet uses RFID technology to automatically identify cartridges of printing material.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Producing Models The Objet500 ‐ Connex 3 printer produces models by printing tray files prepared in the Objet Studio application and sent to the printer from there. For information about preparing model files for printing, see “Using Objet Studio” or Objet Studio Help. Before beginning to produce models, it is recommended that you check the current printing quality of the print heads by performing a pattern test (see “Pattern Test” on page 20).
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer The Objet500 ‐ Connex 3 printer uses one or more model‐material cartridges and one support‐material cartridge to produce models. If additional cartridges are installed and they are not needed for the current print job, the printer interface indicates which are being used: • Blue cartridge—used for the print job • Gray cartridge—not used for the print job You can monitor printer status indicators by switching the printer interface display.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Printer Interface Color Key The background colors in the printer indicator fields tell you at a glance whether or not the value or item is suitable or ready for printing. • Green—suitable/ready for printing For example, in figure 6‐3: Heads (°C)—The heads have reached the temperature required for printing models. Ambient—The ambient temperature of the printing chamber is within the acceptable range.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Printing Indicators The printer interface screen changes when you send a print job from Objet Studio to the printer, and the printer is on line (see figure 6‐4): • The mode changes from Pre‐print to Printing. • The specific activity being performed is shown in the “current activity” field. • Current job‐printing information is displayed. • The printing progress bar is displayed. • The Stop and Pause buttons are enabled.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped If the printing process is interrupted, Objet Studio stops sending slices to the printer. This can happen, for example, if the printing material runs out in the middle of a print job, and you don’t replace the empty cartridge immediately. After the printer changes to Standby or Idle mode, you need to resume printing from the Job Manager screen of Objet Studio.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer printing stoppage on a model depend on the model size and structure, model material used, ambient temperature and the length of the stoppage. If you cannot continue printing: 1. Cancel the print job in the Job Manager screen. 2. Remove the partially printed model from the build tray. 3. Send the job to the printer again.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Changing the Model Material Before producing models using a different type of model material than is currently installed, run the Material Replacement Wizard to flush the print block and feed tubes. You should carefully plan printing models with different model materials to avoid unnecessary waste of material currently loaded. The amount of material flushed depends on the flushing cycle chosen and if you are replacing one or more materials.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 3. If the printer cover is not closed, a screen appears instructing you to close the cover. Confirm that it is closed and click Next. Figure 6-9: Material Replacement Options In the Material Replacement Options screen, you select the settings that determine how the wizard replaces material currently in the system with newly loaded material. 4.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 7. In the Flushing cycle section of the wizard screen, choose how thoroughly you want to flush out material currently in the system. • Economy. This cycle can be used when replacing a light‐colored model material with a darker material (such as TangoBlack™ or VeroBlack™), or if the exact color of the printed models is unimportant. The wizard flushes the system with the minimum amount of material needed to ensure that models have the mechanical properties of the new material.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 8. When the final wizard screen appears, make sure that the screen displays the newly‐loaded material(s). Click Done to close the wizard. Figure 6-12: Results of material replacement CAUTION: Dispose of all material cartridges in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. If necessary, the cartridges can be disassembled for recycling. If this is done, protect the person handling the cartridges from direct exposure to uncured resins.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Keeping the Printer in Idle Mode Between printing jobs, the Objet500 ‐ Connex 3 printer can be kept on for up to one week. If the printer will not be used for more than a week, use the Shutdown Wizard to automatically perform the procedures that must be done before turning off the printer (see “Shutting Down the Printer,” below).
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Shutting Down the Printer You only need to shut down the Objet printer if it will not be used for a week or more. Otherwise, the printer can remain on, in Idle mode. To properly shut down, the printer needs to perform several processes. These are controlled by the Shutdown Wizard.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide The shutdown procedure begins. Figure 6-14: Shutdown progress screen 5. When the final wizard screen appears, close the printer‐control application and shut down the built‐in computer. Figure 6-15: Final Shutdown Wizard screen 6. After the printer computer shuts down, turn off the main power switch at the back of the printer (see figure 6‐2 on page 6‐2). DOC-07000 Rev.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Maintaining the Printer The performance of routine maintenance tasks is essential for getting satisfactory results from Objet 3‐D printers. Perform the tasks at specified intervals for optimum performance. Routine Maintenance Schedule 6–18 Frequency Task For More Information Daily, before printing Clean the print heads. See “Cleaning the Print Heads” on page 6‐18. Weekly Clean the build tray and the surrounding area.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Cleaning the Print Heads Periodic inspection and cleaning of the orifice plates on the bottom of the print block ensures that the print nozzles are not clogged. A wizard guides you through the procedure, and adjusts components of the printer to enable you to perform it. This procedure takes about 20 minutes, and should be done at the beginning of the work day or before a big printing job. To clean the print heads: 1.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 5. When the following screen appears, open the cover. Figure 6-17: Head cleaning wizard—steps 5–10 WARNING: The print head orifice plates (bottom surface) may be hot. Do not touch them with your bare hands, and proceed with caution. 6. Place the mirror on the build tray. 7. Put on the gloves. 8. Soak the cleaning cloth with the cleaning fluid. 9. Clean the orifice plates, with a back‐and‐forth motion (see figure 6‐17).
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 11. Remove the cleaning materials from the printer and close the cover. 12. Select the confirmation check boxes in the wizard screen and click Next. The head‐purge cycle begins. When this is complete, the final wizard screen appears. Figure 6-19: Head-cleaning wizard—final screen 13. Click Done to close the wizard.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Figure 6-22: Sample Pattern Test 6. Carefully inspect the test paper to see if there are missing lines. Too many missing lines, especially if they are in the same area, indicates that the quality of printing when producing models will be poor. If this is the case, see “Improving Print Quality,” below. Note: Acceptable model quality is subjective, and depends on the type and scale (size) of the models produced.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide If the results of the pattern test are still poor: ¾ Optimize the print heads and replace faulty print heads, if necessary (see “Calibrating Print Heads” on page 6‐33). Cleaning and Replacing the Wiper A rubber wiper removes excess material from the print heads after the purge sequence. This is done automatically before each print job, and performed manually during maintenance tasks. You should clean the wiper and surrounding area at least once a week.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Confirm this in the wizard screen. Figure 6-24: Wiper Cleaning procedure—step 4 5. Click Next. 6. When the following screen appears, open the cover. Figure 6-25: Wiper Cleaning Wizard during steps 7–10 7. Put on the cleaning gloves. 8. Using a generous amount of cleaning fluid and the cleaning cloth, remove any material remaining on the wiper and the surrounding area. 9. Inspect the wiper.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 12. Confirm that the tray is clear and that the cover is close, and click Next. 13. Click Done to close the wizard. Cleaning the Roller Waste Collector and Inspecting the Roller Scraper The roller waste collector removes waste material scraped from the roller. Suction removes this waste to the printer’s waste container.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 3. Remove the right UV‐lamp assembly: a. Disconnect the UV power cable and the fan power cable. Fan power connector Power connector Screw Figure 6-26: Disconnecting the right UV assembly b. Remove the screw attaching the right UV lamp to the print block, and then pull and lift up the UV lamp. 4. Loosen the two screws securing the suction tube on the print block. Suction tube screws Figure 6-27: Lifting the suction tube 5.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 6. Remove the two screws securing the covering of the roller waste collector and remove it. Be very careful to save the covering screws. These are special screws; if they are lost you need to order replacements. Roller waste collector screws Figure 6-28: Removing the roller waste collector covering 7. Remove the covering by pulling it out, and then lower it. 8. Clean the roller waste collector and the scraper blade surface using cotton swabs.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 6. Before returning the roller waste collector to the print block, make sure that the pins are clean. Roller waste collector pins Figure 6-30: Roller waste collector pins 7. Return the roller waste collector to the print block and screw on the covering (see figure 6‐27 on page 6‐26). 8. Loosen the screws securing the suction tube. Securing screws Figure 6-31: Suction tube correctly positioned 9.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 3. Loosen the two screws securing the roller waste collector and pull it out. Figure 6-32: Removing the roller waste collector 4. Remove the screws that secure the roller scraper assembly. Figure 6-33: Removing the roller scraper screws Figure 6-34: Removing the old roller scraper blade 5. Remove the scraper blade and discard it. DOC-07000 Rev.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 6. Place the new scraper blade onto the pins in the holder, as shown. Figure 6-35: Inserting the new roller scraper blade 7. Insert and tighten the roller scraper blade screws. Important: • Tighten the screws in the order shown in figure 6-35. • Use the new screws supplied in the replacement kit. Figure 6-36: Tightening the roller scraper screws 8. After tightening the screws, inspect the blade and make sure that it is straight.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide To check the alignment of the print heads: 1. Prepare— • a transparency sheet—A‐4 or Letter size • any type of sticky tape, to fasten the transparency sheet to the build tray 2. Start the Head Alignment Wizard from the Options menu (see figure 6‐22 on page 6‐22). 3. Click Next to begin, and close the cover. 4. In the wizard screen, select the check box to confirm that the cover is closed, and click Next. 5.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer The transparency sheet is printed with sets of vertical lines in seven columns, each showing the results from a different print head. Figure 6-39: Sample head-alignment test • The three columns on the right were printed by the heads used for applying model material when producing models. From right to left, the columns represent heads M1, M2, M3, respectively.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide The first in a series of alignment screens appears. Figure 6-41: Head alignment screen 11. In the head‐alignment screen, select the number that indicates which lines align in the upper and lower rows of a pair on the transparency (counting from the left) for this print head. Note: Because the alignment of the fourth lines is optimum, the number “4” is selected, by default, in the wizard screen. This does not change the head alignment.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 14. In the final wizard screen, choose to either repeat the head alignment procedure or close the wizard. • If the most closely aligned vertical lines for a print head were at either extreme—the first or seventh lines—choose Yes to run the Head Alignment Wizard again, then click Next. The transparency test will show if the heads are now properly aligned, and—if not—the wizard will allow you to “fine tune” the alignment.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 2. Start the Head Optimization Wizard from the Options menu of the printer interface. Figure 6-44: Starting the Head Optimization Wizard 3. In the opening wizard screen, click Next to begin. The Wizard Conditions screen appears. 4. Read the conditions, select I Agree and click Next. 5. In the following screen, make sure Optimize all print heads is selected, and click Next.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer adjust their effective power with the UV Calibration Wizard (see “Testing and Calibrating the UV Lamps” on page 190. If you need to replace a UV lamp, follow these instructions: 1. Make sure the printer is in offline mode. Figure 6-46: Offline mode indicator (red) The online/offline button at the bottom of the printer interface should be red. If not, click it to switch the printer to offline mode.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 5. Disconnect the power connection to the UV lamp. Figure 6-49: Disconnecting the UV lamp Note: Do not disconnect the power connection to the cooling fans. 6. Loosen the screw securing the UV lamp cover (A), and pull the cover up (B), then out (C). Figure 6-50: Removing the UV lamp cover 7. Pull the lamp reflector out of the print block. Figure 6-51: Removing the UV lamp reflector DOC-07000 Rev.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 8. Inspect the new lamp reflector, and make sure that a black strip is attached to the inside of it. If not, install one—on the side of the reflector opposite (not next to) the print block. Note: Extra black strips are included in the printer Start-up Kit. If necessary, you can remove the black strip from the old reflector and install it in the new reflector (as long as the black paint has not faded). 9. Discard the old reflector and lamp.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide 12. Reconnect the power connection to the UV lamp. Figure 6-54: Connecting power to the UV lamp 13. In the wizard screen, confirm that you have replaced the lamp(s) and that the black strip is attached, then click Next. Figure 6-55: UV-installation confirmation screen The wizard operates the lamps and checks if their power is within the acceptable range for each printing mode. (The mode currently being checked appears in the lower‐left corner of the printer interface.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 14. After replacing a UV lamp, it is recommended that you calibrate its power for the various printing modes. The final screen allows you to continue to the UV Calibration Wizard (see “Testing and Calibrating the UV Lamps” on page 6‐190). Figure 6-57: Final wizard screen 6–40 DOC-07000 Rev.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Built-in Tests The software that runs the printer contains a suite of tests for regularly checking the hardware and software, and for troubleshooting. You can configure basic communications and environment tests to run automatically, when the Objet software opens. In addition, you can run a more comprehensive set of tests before processing a print job, as a system check, to ensure optimum printing results.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Accessing Built-in Tests To open the Built-in Tests screen, do one of the following: • From the Options menu, select Built-In Tests. • Press Ctrl+Alt+B. Figure 6-58: Selecting Built-In Tests from the Options menu Test Interface The Built In Tests screen lists pre‐configured tests, grouped by component categories. In this screen, you select and run tests, and the results are displayed. Figure 6-59:Built In Tests screen 6–42 DOC-07000 Rev.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Test List Test Name This column lists all of the tests, together with selection check boxes. Click the check boxes to select the tests you want to run. To remove a selection, click the check box again. To quickly select all of the tests in a component category, use the Group pull‐down menu at the bottom of the screen. Group This column shows the component categories for each test.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Command Buttons You click the command buttons, on the right side of the screen, to perform the following operations: Run Click to run the selected tests. Reset Click to clear previously run tests. This returns the status of each test to Unknown (?). Save Click to save a report that summarizes the tests run. The report is saved as an HTML file.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Test Descriptions and Troubleshooting The following table lists the name of each test in the Built‐in Tests suite, together with its description and a possible reason for its failure. If you need assistance, contact your Objet service provider. Test Name Description Possible Reason for Failure Sub‐System Communication Tests communications between Eden components. Disconnected communications cable. Faulty cable.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer Replacing the Waste Container The waste container contains partially cured polymeric material produced during normal operation and maintenance of the printer. For safety and environmental reasons, this material is kept in a special leak‐proof, disposable container. The container has a capacity of 10 kilograms of waste material—usually enough for several months of printer use.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide To prepare a new waste container: 1. Assemble the cardboard box, making sure to punch out the perforated sections. 2. Place a new plastic container into the box. Note: Do not close the box until you connect the waste drain tube from the printer (see below). To replace the waste container: Locate the door on the lower‐left side of the printer.Push in the upper‐ right corner of the door to release the latch and open the door. Figure 6-61: Accessing the waste container 3.
Operating & Maintaining the Objet500 - Connex 3 3D Printer 9. Close the waste compartment door. Dispose of the full waste container in accordance with environmental and safety requirements. The painted exterior plastic panels of Objet 3‐D printers have a durable Cleaning the Exterior Panels finish, offering excellent chemical resistance to common cleaning agents. However, follow the recommendations below when cleaning these areas of the printer.
Handling Printed Models Removing Models After Printing.............................................................. 2 Removing the Support Material................................................................ 2 Storing Models............................................................................................. 5 DOC-07000 Rev.
Handling Printed Models Removing Models After Printing After printing models, you should allow them to cool as much as possible before handling them. If additional models do not have to be produced on the printer, it is best to let the printed models cool in the printer, with the cover closed, as long as possible. If the printer must be used to produce additional models as soon as possible: 1. Let the printed models cool on the build tray for at least 10 minutes. 2.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Figure 7-1: Balco WaterJet Cleaning Unit To clean a model using this device, you place it in the chamber, and you manipulate it and the jet using the built‐in, waterproof sleeves. A pump turns ordinary tap water into a high‐pressure jet, and a wiper keeps the window clear. Use caution when cleaning delicate models with high-pressure water systems.
Handling Printed Models Post-Printing Treatment for Models Printed with Objet VeroClear Models made with Objet VeroClear have a slight yellow tint when removed from the printer. This is especially true for models printed with a glossy finish. The yellow tint fades naturally over time, but you can greatly accelerate this process by using a suitable photobleaching treatment. As a rule, best clarity is achieved when parts are printed with a matte finish, and treated as explained below.
Objet500 - Connex 3 User Guide Storing Models Models are cured as they are printed, making them safe and stable for a long time. However, proper storage conditions are necessary to prevent deforming. • Keep printed models at room temperature and in a low‐humidity environment. • Do not expose models to direct sunlight and other heat sources. DOC-07000 Rev.
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