{{tag>NLS}}
{{tag>3dprinting}}
====== Aldi 3d printer ======

===== Basics =====
Aldi's new 'mini' 3D printer
Cocoon Create Model Maker: A rebrand of the 'Wanhao i3 Duplicator Mini'

{{ :hte:projects:cocooncreate_modelmaker:20180712_161951.jpg?400 |}}

==== Advantages ====
  * $299 when in stock. Less on clearance. About $350-380 from under the original brand from other online stores:
  * * https://www.ebay.com/itm/Wanhao-Duplicator-i3-Mini-3D-Printer-Ships-from-USA-/282697048544
  * * https://www.3dprinters4u.com.au/shop/product/39914/WANHAO-I3-MINITHE-ALL-NEW-POCKET-ROCKET-FROM-WANHAO/
  * Works out of the box with no assembly Simple setup, well packaged.
  * Good manual for hardware setup and test. Comes with enough filament to get started.
  * Bed leveling wizard built in and paper to help.
  * Quiet printing.
  * Metal construction, descent seeming parts
  * E3D clone print head!  (But with caviet below)  So replacement tips and heatbreaks might make a nice upgrade.
==== Disadvantage ====
  * Minimial software instructions beond a very few 'getting started' pages.
  * NO HEATED BED.  So can't print ABS.  PLA or PETG will be your main materials.
  * No dedicated cooling fan, so fine detail can be tricky.
  * Due to being a clone, hotend is PTFE lined rather than all metal so print temperature is limited to 140 continuous and 160 for limited times.

===== Example prints =====

{{:hte:projects:cocooncreate_modelmaker:20180711_160959.jpg?600|}}


===== Software =====

Instead of using cura/slic3r and an SD card, we are trying Matterhacker's 'Matter control' 3d printing software that works over USB.
==== Settings ====
Settings and Controls -> Settings -> Printer
Switch to 'Basic' to 'Advanced'
  * Connection:
    * Baud Rate: 250,000
  * Print area:
    * Bed Size: 120x135
    * Print center: 60x65
    * Build Height: 100
  * Features:
    * Has Fan
    * Has SD Card
  * Extruder:
    * Nozzle Diameter: 0.3mm

===== Upgrades =====

==== Easy ====

  * [[https://e3d-online.com/nozzles-v6-brass|E3D V6 Brass Nozzles]]\\
Replace 0.4 with 0.3mm for finer printing.

  * [[https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2828554|FAN DUCT WANHAO I3 MINI]] \\
Requires no modification or parts, uses existing fan but gives no controllable cooling.

==== Intermediate ====

  * [[https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2640601|Cocoon Create Model Maker (Wanhao Duplicator i3 Mini) mount with part-cooling fan]] \\
Requires minor wiring changes and new parts but allows for a proper controlled cooling fan.

==== Hard ====
  * Should be possible to upgrade bed to a heated one using cheap parts. This requires 3d printer and electronics knowledge and is not recommended for most users.