Technical requirements of 3D printers for cameras

High resolution: Higher pixel and resolution allow the camera to clearly capture print details, facilitating the monitoring of quality, interlayer bonding, etc., of printed parts. For example, a camera with a resolution of 1080p or above can meet most 3D printing monitoring needs.

Low distortion: The lens distortion should be low to ensure that the image of the printed object is true and accurate, reducing size measurement errors and distortion caused by distortion, which is particularly important for high-precision printing.

Appropriate focal length: The focal length affects the imaging range and the of the object in the picture. A short focal length can provide a larger field of view but with less image detail, while a long focal length can magnify the details of the object but with a narrow field of view. It is necessary to choose according to the print size and monitoring range, such as using a short focal length for monitoring small desktop 3D printers.

High contrast and color reproduction: High contrast can make the edges and details of the printed part clearer, and accurate color reproduction to judge the status of printing materials, whether there is discoloration, etc., through color, which is conducive to identifying printing defects.

Autocus: During the printing process, the height of the printed part will change. The autofocus function can make the camera quickly and accurately focus, always maintaining a clear image. Some high-end or industrial 3D printers are often equipped with this function, and consumer-grade 3D printers can choose camera modules with autofocus functions.

Fast speed: Fast focusing speed can reduce the image blurring caused by focusing delay and ensure the continuity and real-time performance of monitoring.

Vibration: 3D printers produce vibrations during operation, and the camera needs to have good vibration resistance. This can be achieved by strengthening the structural design, using shock-absbing materials, or installing shock-absorbing brackets to ensure image stability and not affect the monitoring effect.

Temperature adaptability: The ambient temperature will change during the printing, and the camera needs to work stably within a wide temperature range to prevent image blurring, color distortion, and performance degradation caused by temperature changes, especially in or long-term printing scenarios.

Interface type: The common USB interface is a common way to connect the camera to the 3D printer or control. It is necessary to ensure that the interface version and transmission protocol are compatible with the device to achieve plug-and-play and stable data transmission.

Software compatibility: The camera be compatible with 3D printing control software or monitoring platforms, such as supporting common software such as Octoprint and Astroprint, to facilitate users to control the and view the monitoring image on the same interface.