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S1 User Manual

Updated on Dec 04, 2024

Introduction

Purpose of the Manual

This manual provides instructions for setting up and operating the Infinity Flow S1, an automated filament management system for 3D printers. Designed to prevent print interruptions and reduce manual intervention, the S1 enables uninterrupted printing by automatically managing filament reloads. The Infinity Flow S1 is compatible with standard 1.75mm filament materials, including PLA, ABS, and PETG, making it versatile for most 3D printing applications.

Product Overview

The Infinity Flow S1 is a passive system that operates independently, utilizing force feedback from the 3D printer’s extruder to detect and manage filament flow. This design ensures seamless functionality without requiring any wireless or wired connection to the 3D printer. Key features include:

  • Automatic Filament Reload: Seamlessly transitions between spools, preventing print interruptions.
  • Live Filament Loading: Allows users to add filament while the printer is in operation, minimizing downtime.
  • Universal Compatibility: Works with most 3D printers that use 1.75mm filament and requires no firmware modifications.

 

Safety Information

General Safety Guidelines

  • Read All Instructions: Ensure that you have read and understood this manual before setting up or operating the Infinity Flow S1.
  • Electrical Safety: The S1 is powered by a 12V, 2A AC-DC power adapter included with the unit. Only use the provided power adapter to avoid electrical hazards or damage to the device.

Device-Specific Safety Precautions

  • Protective Covers: Do not remove any covers or protective panels on the S1 while the device is powered. These covers are designed to safeguard the electronics from accidental contact and damage.

Important Notice

The Infinity Flow S1 is designed as a passive, stand-alone system. Always ensure the device is installed according to the setup instructions and is securely positioned before beginning operation. To ensure optimal performance, use the device in an environment with stable temperature and humidity.

 

Product Overview

 Components and Parts Identification

Figure 1: Components and Parts Identification

 

Figure 2: Bottom Components and Parts Identification

 

Roller Side Options

The Infinity Flow S1 is available in three configurations to support various filament spool sizes and mounting preferences. Each variant with rollers is designed to accommodate a maximum spool diameter, but it can also accept smaller spools for flexibility.

For users who require a custom spool configuration, the no-roller variant (S1-NS) allows for flexible, custom mounting to fit unique filament requirements.

 

Model Number

Roller Size

Max Spool Size

S1 Dimensions

S1 Weight

S1-NS

No Rollers

N/A

130x249x104mm | 5.1x9.8x4.1in

0.65kg | 1.43 lbs

S1-1KG

1kg Rollers

78mm | 3.1in

245x249x104mm | 9.6x9.8x4.1in

0.95kg | 2.10 lbs

S1-3KG

3kg Rollers

130mm | 5.1in

349x249x104mm | 13.7x9.8x4.1in

1.02kg | 2.25 lbs

S1-5KG

5kg Rollers

178mm | 7.0in

445x249x104mm | 17.5x9.8x4.1in

1.05kg | 2.31 lbs

Technical Specifications

 

Unboxing and Inventory

Review the list below to verify that you have everything needed to begin setup. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact our support team.

Package Contents

Each Infinity Flow S1 package includes the following items:

    • Infinity Flow S1 Unit (variant-specific)
    • AC-DC Power Adapter (12V, 2A)
    • Mounting Hardware (if included, e.g., screws or brackets for wall mounting)
  • 1 meter PTFE Bowden Tube

Setup and Installation

Please refer to the following link for assembly and setup instructions:

https://infinityflow3d.com/blogs/setup-guides/s1-setup-guide

 

Operating Instructions

Indicator Light Guide

  • Yellow Light: Filament is preloading and ready to be activated.
  • Green Light: Filament is actively tracking the printer’s extruder.
  • Red Light: Indicates the roll has run out and will no longer feed filament.
  • Blue Light: Device is in sleep mode and on standby until the printer extruder moves.

Operations

Loading Filament (First Roll)

  1. Insert Filament: Insert the filament into the designated filament inlet until the indicator light for that side turns yellow. This yellow light indicates that the S1 is preloading the filament.
  2. Engage Gearbox: Gently press the filament further until it is grabbed by the gearbox as it begins to rotate. Hold the filament steady while it’s being loaded.
  3. Confirm Active Status: After a few seconds, the indicator light should turn green as the S1 loads the filament into the printer. The side is now active and ready to track the printer’s extruder.

Loading Filament (Second Roll)

  1. Repeat Loading Process: Insert the second filament roll into the opposite filament inlet (see figure 1) until the indicator light for that side turns yellow.
  2. Preload Confirmation: As with the first roll, press the filament in until it is grabbed by the gearbox. The light will remain yellow to indicate that the second roll is on standby and ready to be fed once the first roll runs out.

Automatic Switching and Sleep Mode

  • Automatic Switching: When the first roll runs out, the S1’s state light on the empty side will turn red. The S1 will then automatically switch to the second roll, which will become the active roll. This active status is indicated by a green light (or blue if in sleep mode).
  • Sleep Mode: After 5 seconds of inactivity from the printer’s extruder, the S1 will automatically enter sleep mode. The indicator light on the active side will turn blue to show that the device is in standby.
  • Waking from Sleep Mode: The S1 will automatically exit sleep mode and resume active operation when the printer’s extruder begins moving again.

 

Glossary

Term

Definition

Extruder

The component of a 3D printer that draws filament from the spool, heats it, and deposits it layer by layer to build the print.

Filament

The material, typically plastic, that is melted and extruded by the printer to form a 3D print. Common types include PLA, ABS, and PETG.

Force Feedback

A system that senses tension in the filament, allowing the S1 to detect when the filament is actively being pulled by the printer’s extruder.

Gearbox

An internal mechanism in the S1 that grabs and feeds filament into the printer’s extruder, ensuring smooth and continuous operation.

Indicator Light

LED lights on the S1 that provide status information. Colors indicate the filament's state (e.g., yellow for preloading, green for active, red for empty, and blue for sleep mode).

PTFE Bowden Tube

A type of tubing made from PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) that guides filament from the S1 to the extruder. Known for its low friction, it allows smooth filament movement.

Roller

A component that holds and guides the filament spool. Roller sizes vary based on the spool capacity (e.g., 1kg, 3kg, 5kg) and ensure smooth feeding of filament.

Spool

A roll of filament wound around a central hub, providing the material that the printer extrudes during printing. Spools vary in size, typically from 1kg to 5kg or more.

Standby Mode

Also referred to as sleep mode, this is a state in which the S1 is inactive and conserving power while waiting for the printer’s extruder to begin drawing filament again.