Rolling RepRap Helios Prototype Has an Infinite Print Volume

When you purchase a new 3D printer, one of the most important specifications to consider is the print volume. You want to make sure the 3D printer is actually capable of producing objects at the size you need, otherwise you’ll have to break models down into smaller pieces and attach them together afterwards. Resin printers, for example, offer amazing detail and quality, but their print volume is too small for most people. That’s why this RepRap Helios was modified to roll, so it has an infinite build volume.

The RepRap Helios, like every other RepRap 3D printer, is completely open source. Unlike most 3D printers which have a linear Cartesian layout, the Helios is built on a SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm) style robot arm. In its normal, stationary form, that is a pretty niche layout that doesn’t offer many advantages over a traditional 3D printer. But, if you add some wheels, it opens up a lot of new possibilities.

This prototype was created by simply mounting a RepRap Helios onto a motorized, wheeled platform. It sits at angle, so the Z axis isn’t necessary. The wheeled base allows it to drive along and print infinitely in one direction as it does. This is still an early prototype, but the idea is to flesh out the idea by allowing it to drive in the X and Y axes, making those both infinite. The Z axis will be more conventional, which will limit a potential part’s height. But, being able to print infinitely in the X and Y axes would still be incredibly useful.