I have been continuously seeking a method to track filament usage independently of a Bambu Lab AMS. My initial prototype, while promising, had significant flaws, primarily an increase in friction between the filament and the counter. This issue made the device unusable for flexible materials like TPU.

After discovering the AS5600 magnetic rotary encoder chip, I revised my approach. By integrating the chip with the extruder wheel, I successfully eliminated the friction problem. This design also allowed me to create a more compact system and incorporate a screen for real-time visualization of filament usage.

I am currently in the early stages of this project. Having completed the hardware phase, I am now focused on the software and testing phases to refine the system's performance and accuracy.

Phase 1: Software Development & Initial Release (v1.0 - v1.2)

This phase is entirely focused on bringing the completed hardware to life. We are currently writing the foundational software.

• Software Development: We are in the process of writing the core code that will allow the device to read data from the AS5600 chip, translate it into precise filament length, and display it on the screen.
• Initial Release (v1.0): The first version of the Filament Tracker will provide accurate, real-time filament usage tracking via its built-in display. This will be a fully functional product for tracking a single spool of filament.
• Automatic Storage (v1.2): We will add a feature that automatically saves your filament usage data. If the device is ever powered off, it will remember exactly how much filament was used, ensuring you never lose your progress.

Phase 2: Expanding Features & Functionality (v1.3 - v2.1)

In this phase, we'll introduce smart features that make managing your filament inventory easier than ever.

• Filament Management (v1.3): You'll be able to tell the tracker what type of filament you're using (e.g., PLA, PETG) and its starting length. This will give you a clear, real-time view of your remaining filament.
• Increased Accuracy (v1.4): We will continue to refine our core tracking algorithm to provide even greater precision. Your filament usage will be measured with a new level of accuracy.
• Web Interface (v2.0): We're developing a web-based interface that will make the tracker more user-friendly. You'll be able to monitor your filament usage from your computer or phone, making it easier than ever to manage your prints.
• Automated Inventory (v2.1): The web interface will evolve into a complete filament management system. It will automatically store a record of all your filament spools and their current percentage, taking the guesswork out of inventory management.

Phase 3: Hardware & Ecosystem Integration (v3.0 - v4.0)

This phase is about making the hardware sleeker and the software more connected.

• More Compact Design (v3.0): We will redesign the hardware to make the device more compact and elegant. This will make the tracker even easier to integrate with your existing 3D printer setup.
• OpenSpool Integration (v4.0): We are committed to an open ecosystem. By integrating with OpenSpool, we will allow our tracker to communicate seamlessly with other popular filament management and inventory platforms.

Bill of Materials

AS5600 Chip - Link

Screen -Link

Version 1 - Link