Automating 3D printing with computer vision and robotics
This project addresses the limitations of typical 3D printing workflows by automating post‑processing tasks using computer vision and a robotic arm. The goal is to create a fully automated system that can monitor print jobs, remove completed prints, and prepare the printer for the next job.
Traditional 3D printers require constant human supervision for loading and removing prints. Operators need to monitor the printer, remove completed objects, clean the build platform, and restart the process, which slows down production and increases labor costs.
My solution combines computer vision to monitor print status with a robotic arm and conveyor system to automatically remove finished prints, clean the build plate, and stage parts for sorting. An Arduino microcontroller orchestrates the motion of the arm and conveyor.
I developed a computer vision module using OpenCV to detect when a print is complete. A custom five‑axis robotic arm equipped with a gripper removes the print from the bed and transfers it to a conveyor belt for sorting. The system is controlled by an Arduino interfaced with the vision software.
Future work will focus on adding remote monitoring capabilities, improving the accuracy of the vision system, and integrating the system with automated filament loading and assembly lines for a fully autonomous manufacturing workflow.
If you'd like to learn more about this project or collaborate, feel free to reach out.
Email: daniilkniazkou2026@u.northwestern.edu
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/daniilkniazkou