Filament stack with free spinning spools

pinshape

This design seamlessly integrates filament storage and dispensing capabilities. The featured 4-color tower is just the starting point - 6 to 8 color towers would be equally effective. This compact system can easily be lifted from the top and relocated to your workspace. Marbles serve as highly effective ball bearings, ensuring that the spools spin freely with minimal resistance. PVC tubing forms the base of this design, while the top and bottom components are crafted from plywood due to the printer's limited size. The STL files for these parts are included for future reference. Potential upgrades or add-ons may include vertical sections, one for each spool, which could enhance overall stability. Additionally, a more efficient method for feeding filament to the top of the tower before connecting it to the printer is being considered. A bearing with a slight return feature is also under evaluation, allowing marbles to snap into place and stay put without falling back out. Some parts in this design have yet to be fully tested due to their size, so feedback on any issues encountered would be greatly appreciated. The marble-bearing cups are printed with solid infill for added durability. When installing the bearing caps, ensure that the toothed side faces upwards to secure them firmly into place. While these components work well with most spools, some may require additional support - a flat disk attached with hot glue is one possible solution. Check out this 10-second video showcasing the design in action: https://goo.gl/xPXSjY