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Repurposed 3D Printer Serves Dual Function as Robotic Camera and Photogrammetry Setup for 3D Scanning

Ben Maker from YouTube demonstrates the transformation of an antiquated 3D printer into a functional photogrammetry setup.

Repurposed 3D Printer Functions as a Robotic Camera and Also Serves as a Photogrammetry Rig for 3D...
Repurposed 3D Printer Functions as a Robotic Camera and Also Serves as a Photogrammetry Rig for 3D Scanning

Repurposed 3D Printer Serves Dual Function as Robotic Camera and Photogrammetry Setup for 3D Scanning

In an innovative twist of technology, YouTuber Tom Stanton, better known as Ben Makes Everything, has breathed new life into an old, unused Creality Ender 3 3D printer. The goal was to utilise the Ender 3's precise stepper motors for a cinematic purpose, and the result is a robotic camera system that can move up, down, forward, and back, as well as rotate and tilt.

The robotic camera system is a testament to creative reuse, using the screen and original controller board from the Ender 3. Four motors power the system: one for rotating a turntable, one for tilting the camera, and two for controlling the camera's physical position in relation to the turntable.

The robot interprets G-code files for movement, which are created using a custom Python script. Notably, the Creality 3D printer runs on Marlin firmware, an open-source software that can be programmed to control Ben's camera system.

This project serves as a prime example of how vintage hardware can be given new life in creative projects. It's a cool upcycling endeavour that showcases modern hardware being repurposed into something unique.

A video shared by Ben Makes Everything demonstrates the final project in action, as well as the journey in creating it. The robotic camera system can be seen in action on YouTube, where Ben Makes Everything is known by their username.

For those interested in following Ben's creative projects, the article does not offer a newsletter subscription for Tom's Hardware. However, you can stay updated by subscribing to Ben's YouTube channel.

The robotic camera system, apart from its cinematic applications, can also be used for 3D scanning via photogrammetry. This versatile tool opens up a world of possibilities for creators and innovators alike.

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