Zim Cartridge Plate Extension

thingiverse

Zeepro Zim utilizes a proprietary cartridge system, but many users have encountered issues with this design, including frequent jamming and refilling problems. In response, creators are addressing these concerns by designing an accessory that allows bypassing the stock cartridge while still using the spool and base plate with the RFID tag intact. This innovative approach simplifies the process of removing and replacing the spools at the expense of needing to reset the cartridge information each time a new spool is loaded, resulting in reduced filament unspooling interference. Instructions for utilizing this accessory require disassembling the Zim cartridge, after which you can create a custom preset based on the "Fast" setting with supported disabled and autofan enabled. Given that the small bridges involved don't require supports, this setting makes sense. To assemble the bypass design, only the bottom RFID plate and spool (minus the spool cover) are needed. The black o-ring surrounding the filament can be removed and set aside during installation. It's also recommended to secure the filament guide in place by positioning it over the slot in the neck of the RFID plate towards the bottom feed stepper. The goal is to ensure smooth filament feeding into the stepper, which may or may not require this additional piece. However, incorporating it doesn't hurt. There's a top slot designed to accept a zip tie for holding this part in place, as well as an underneath screw hole suitable for a 4-40-sized screw that would offer permanent fixation to the base and enhanced stiffness to the neck portion of the bottom plate. Lastly, the larger back piece is crafted to snap onto the RFID plate. This multi-functional component provides two significant advantages: first, it offers protection by retaining spool tension even if tangles develop; secondly, it precisely aligns with the cartridge holder clips on the back of the system, supplying downward force and holding down the lower RFID plate as well as spring tension against the bottom stepper pinion.