Digital fashions meant for fabrication on the Anycubic Kobra Max 3D printer are saved in specialised codecs like .STL (Stereolithography), .OBJ (Wavefront OBJ), or .3MF (3D Manufacturing Format). These recordsdata include the geometric knowledge obligatory for the printer to assemble a bodily object layer by layer. A easy instance can be a digital illustration of a cellphone case, saved as an .STL, able to be printed on the Kobra Max.
These digital blueprints are basic to the additive manufacturing course of. They permit for advanced designs to be realized bodily, providing benefits in customization, prototyping, and small-scale manufacturing. The evolution of those file codecs has paralleled developments in 3D printing expertise, enabling more and more intricate and exact object creation. Entry to and understanding of those recordsdata is important for using the total potential of the Kobra Max.
The next sections delve into particular features of working with suitable recordsdata, encompassing matters akin to file preparation, optimization strategies, troubleshooting frequent points, and exploring superior options associated to the Anycubic Kobra Max ecosystem.
1. File Codecs (STL, OBJ, 3MF)
The Anycubic Kobra Max 3D printer’s performance depends on digital fashions represented in particular file codecs. Understanding these codecs is important for profitable printing. The commonest codecs suitable with the Kobra Max are STL, OBJ, and 3MF, every possessing distinctive traits and benefits.
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STL (Stereolithography)
STL is probably the most extensively used 3D printing file format. It represents a 3D object’s floor as a set of interconnected triangles. This simplicity makes it extensively suitable however limits its potential to retailer coloration or texture info. A typical use case includes exporting a CAD design as an STL for printing a mechanical half on the Kobra Max.
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OBJ (Wavefront OBJ)
OBJ gives extra superior capabilities than STL, supporting materials definitions, coloration, and texture knowledge. This makes it appropriate for printing objects requiring visible constancy, akin to collectible figurines or creative fashions. Nevertheless, its bigger file sizes and barely lowered compatibility in comparison with STL needs to be thought of.
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3MF (3D Manufacturing Format)
3MF is a more recent format designed particularly for additive manufacturing. It incorporates options like inner constructions, help info, and a number of supplies inside a single file. Whereas providing superior knowledge richness and doubtlessly streamlining workflows for the Kobra Max, its adoption stays much less widespread than STL or OBJ.
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Selecting the Proper Format
Deciding on the suitable format is determined by the particular software. STL suffices for easy geometries, whereas OBJ caters to visually advanced fashions. 3MF gives probably the most complete characteristic set for superior printing wants, though its relative novelty may current compatibility challenges with some software program or workflows.
Profitable utilization of the Anycubic Kobra Max hinges on selecting the proper file format. Whereas STL supplies a fundamental but dependable possibility, OBJ and 3MF supply progressively superior functionalities, enabling customers to leverage the total potential of the printer relying on the complexity and necessities of the meant output. Cautious consideration of those codecs is a vital first step within the 3D printing course of.
2. Mannequin Orientation
Mannequin orientation considerably impacts the success and high quality of prints produced on the Anycubic Kobra Max. The location of a 3D mannequin inside the digital print mattress, outlined inside the digital file and manipulated by way of slicing software program, immediately influences a number of crucial elements. These embrace floor end, structural integrity, print time, and materials consumption. A mannequin oriented with giant, flat surfaces immediately on the print mattress sometimes reveals higher adhesion and a smoother end. Conversely, a poorly oriented mannequin can result in print failures, requiring help constructions that enhance print time and materials utilization.
Take into account printing a miniature duplicate of a bridge. Orienting the bridge horizontally, alongside its size, may create overhangs requiring in depth help constructions. This will increase print time and materials consumption and doubtlessly leaves unpleasant marks on the completed product. Nevertheless, orienting the bridge vertically minimizes overhangs, resulting in a cleaner print requiring fewer helps. This instance highlights how strategic mannequin orientation optimizes useful resource utilization and improves print high quality. One other instance is a figurine with outstretched arms; printing it upright may necessitate helps underneath the arms, whereas angling the mannequin diagonally may get rid of the necessity for helps altogether.
Understanding the connection between mannequin orientation and the traits of the digital file is essential for profitable printing on the Kobra Max. Cautious consideration of help construction era, print mattress adhesion, and desired floor end permits for optimization of printing parameters. Mastering mannequin orientation streamlines the printing course of, minimizing materials waste, lowering print time, and enhancing the standard of the ultimate product. This in the end results in extra environment friendly and efficient utilization of the Anycubic Kobra Max’s capabilities.
3. Scaling and Sizing
Scaling and sizing are crucial operations inside the workflow of making ready digital fashions for printing on the Anycubic Kobra Max. These manipulations, carried out inside 3D modeling software program or slicing functions, immediately have an effect on the ultimate dimensions of the printed object. Exact scaling ensures the bodily output matches design specs, whereas acceptable sizing issues account for the Kobra Max’s construct quantity limitations. For instance, a digital mannequin of a cellphone case designed in centimeters may require scaling within the slicing software program to make sure a correct match on the meant cellphone mannequin. Equally, a big architectural mannequin may should be scaled down to suit inside the printer’s construct quantity, doubtlessly requiring the mannequin to be divided into smaller printable sections. The scaling course of immediately modifies the dimensional knowledge embedded inside the digital file, influencing materials utilization, print time, and the ultimate product’s performance.
A number of elements affect scaling and sizing choices. Purposeful necessities, akin to the necessity for a scaled prototype to suit current parts, are main issues. Materials availability and price additionally play a job, as bigger prints devour extra filament. Print time will increase with measurement and complexity, impacting mission timelines. Understanding these trade-offs is important for efficient scaling and sizing. As an example, a scaled-down mannequin of a turbine blade for aerodynamic testing may prioritize dimensional accuracy over materials utilization, whereas a big ornamental print may prioritize cost-effectiveness by adjusting scale to attenuate filament consumption. Analyzing the interaction of those elements optimizes printing outcomes inside the constraints of the Anycubic Kobra Max.
Correct scaling and sizing are basic for profitable prints on the Kobra Max. Correct scaling ensures adherence to design intent and practical necessities, whereas acceptable sizing ensures printability inside the machine’s bodily constraints. Cautious consideration of those elements avoids potential print failures attributable to outsized fashions or wasted sources from unnecessarily giant prints. Finally, mastering scaling and sizing contributes to environment friendly workflow administration, optimized materials utilization, and profitable realization of the meant design by way of the additive manufacturing course of on the Kobra Max.
4. Slicing Software program
Slicing software program types a crucial bridge between digital 3D fashions and the Anycubic Kobra Max. This software program interprets the geometric knowledge embedded inside 3D print recordsdata (STL, OBJ, 3MF) into G-code directions, the language understood by the printer. With out slicing software program, the Kobra Max can’t interpret the digital design and execute the printing course of. Slicing software program successfully converts a static 3D mannequin right into a dynamic set of directions that dictate the printer’s actions, layer deposition, and different crucial parameters.
The significance of slicing software program extends past mere file conversion. Throughout the software program, customers management important printing parameters that considerably affect print high quality, velocity, and materials utilization. Layer top, infill density, print velocity, help construction era, and print mattress temperature are all configured inside the slicing software program. For instance, a consumer designing a practical prototype may go for a finer layer top within the slicing software program to realize larger decision and element, whereas a consumer creating a big ornamental object may prioritize velocity and use a thicker layer top to cut back print time. The selection of slicing software program and its correct configuration immediately impression the success and effectivity of printing on the Kobra Max.
A number of respected slicing software program choices exist, every providing distinct options and capabilities. Cura, PrusaSlicer, and Simplify3D are generally used examples, usually that includes pre-configured profiles optimized for particular printers just like the Anycubic Kobra Max. Understanding the nuances of slicing software program and its parameters is important for profitable 3D printing. Incorrect settings can result in print failures, wasted materials, and suboptimal outcomes. Mastering slicing software program empowers customers to harness the total potential of the Kobra Max, translating digital designs into high-quality bodily objects with precision and management.
5. Layer Top
Layer top, a vital parameter outlined inside slicing software program when making ready digital fashions for the Anycubic Kobra Max, immediately influences the decision and high quality of 3D-printed objects. This setting dictates the thickness of every layer of extruded filament deposited by the printer, successfully figuring out the vertical step measurement within the additive manufacturing course of. Recordsdata meant for the Kobra Max, no matter format (STL, OBJ, 3MF), are sliced into these particular person layers, and the desired layer top governs the precision and floor end of the ultimate print. A smaller layer top produces finer particulars and smoother surfaces, akin to growing the decision of a digital picture. Conversely, a bigger layer top leads to a sooner print with extra seen layers, just like a lower-resolution picture with noticeable pixelation. This relationship between layer top and print high quality is a basic facet of working with recordsdata meant for the Anycubic Kobra Max.
Take into account printing a miniature figurine. A layer top of 0.1mm, utilized throughout the slicing course of to the corresponding digital file, would produce a extremely detailed print with clean curves and complex options. Nevertheless, this may additionally enhance the print time considerably. Alternatively, a layer top of 0.3mm would lead to a sooner print however with a extra visibly layered floor end, doubtlessly obscuring nice particulars. This trade-off between print velocity and determination have to be rigorously thought of primarily based on the meant software. For practical prototypes requiring excessive precision, a smaller layer top is preferable. For bigger, much less detailed objects, a bigger layer top gives a extra environment friendly strategy. One other instance is printing a mechanical half; a smaller layer top ensures tight tolerances and clean mating surfaces, whereas a bigger layer top may suffice for a non-critical part.
Understanding the impression of layer top on print high quality and print time is prime to attaining optimum outcomes with the Anycubic Kobra Max. Recordsdata destined for this printer have to be sliced with an acceptable layer top, balancing the specified stage of element with sensible issues like print length and filament consumption. Cautious consideration of layer top, alongside different slicing parameters, empowers customers to successfully management the 3D printing course of, translating digital designs into bodily objects with the specified traits and effectivity. This understanding is essential for anybody working with the Anycubic Kobra Max and searching for to maximise its capabilities.
6. Infill Density
Infill density, a key parameter configured inside slicing software program, governs the inner construction of 3D prints produced on the Anycubic Kobra Max. This setting dictates the quantity of fabric used to fill the inside of a mannequin, influencing its power, weight, materials consumption, and print time. Digital recordsdata meant for the Kobra Max, no matter their format (STL, OBJ, 3MF), endure slicing, the place infill density performs a crucial function in figuring out the ultimate object’s traits. Understanding infill density is essential for optimizing prints for particular functions and attaining desired structural and materials effectivity outcomes.
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Structural Integrity
Infill density immediately impacts the structural integrity of a printed object. The next infill density, akin to 80%, yields a stronger, extra inflexible half, appropriate for practical prototypes or load-bearing parts. A decrease infill density, like 10%, creates a lighter, much less material-intensive object, acceptable for ornamental gadgets or non-critical components. Selecting the proper infill density is important for attaining the specified steadiness between power and weight.
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Materials Consumption and Print Time
Infill density considerably impacts each materials consumption and print time. Increased infill densities require extra filament and longer print durations. Decrease densities preserve materials and cut back print instances. Take into account printing a substitute half for a family equipment; the next infill density could be prioritized to make sure sturdiness, whereas an ornamental object may make the most of a decrease density to preserve materials and cut back print time. Balancing these elements is essential for environment friendly and cost-effective printing.
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Infill Patterns
Slicing software program supplies quite a lot of infill patterns, impacting structural traits and print habits. Widespread patterns embrace grid, honeycomb, triangular, and rectilinear. Every sample gives distinct properties relating to power, flexibility, and print stability. Deciding on the suitable infill sample contributes to optimizing the print for its meant function. A honeycomb infill could be appropriate for light-weight but comparatively robust components, whereas a rectilinear infill gives elevated power alongside particular axes.
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Balancing Act
Optimizing infill density requires cautious consideration of a number of elements. The meant software of the printed object, desired power and weight, materials availability, and print time constraints all contribute to the decision-making course of. A mannequin of a drone chassis may prioritize light-weight building with strategically positioned high-density infill for reinforcement, whereas a mannequin of a software deal with may require uniform high-density infill for total sturdiness.
Understanding and successfully using infill density settings inside slicing software program is paramount for maximizing the capabilities of the Anycubic Kobra Max. Acceptable collection of infill density, at the side of different parameters, interprets digital designs, no matter file format, into bodily objects with the specified structural traits, materials effectivity, and print time optimization. Mastery of infill density contributes to profitable and environment friendly additive manufacturing on the Kobra Max, making certain prints meet practical necessities and materials utilization targets.
7. Assist Buildings
Assist constructions play an important function within the profitable 3D printing of advanced geometries on the Anycubic Kobra Max. Digital fashions represented in varied file codecs (STL, OBJ, 3MF) usually include overhanging options or intricate particulars that can’t be printed immediately onto the print mattress with out collapsing or warping. Assist constructions, generated by slicing software program primarily based on the geometry of the digital file, present momentary scaffolding for these difficult options, making certain they keep their form and place throughout the printing course of. They act as momentary foundations, permitting the printer to construct layers in mid-air, bridging gaps and supporting overhanging sections till the encircling materials solidifies. As soon as the print is full, these help constructions are eliminated, revealing the meant design.
The need and configuration of help constructions are closely influenced by the particular geometry encoded inside the 3D print file. For instance, a mannequin of a bridge with a posh arch would require help constructions to forestall the arch from collapsing throughout printing. The slicing software program analyzes the digital file and generates help constructions strategically positioned to offer the required reinforcement. Equally, a mannequin of a figurine with outstretched arms would require helps beneath the arms to forestall drooping or deformation. With out these helps, the print may fail, leading to a distorted or incomplete object. Slicing software program gives varied settings to customise help construction era, together with density, kind (e.g., tree helps, linear helps), and speak to factors with the mannequin, permitting customers to fine-tune help era for optimum outcomes primarily based on the intricacies of their 3D print recordsdata.
Efficient use of help constructions expands the design prospects on the Anycubic Kobra Max, permitting for the belief of advanced geometries that will in any other case be inconceivable to print. Understanding how slicing software program interacts with digital recordsdata to generate help constructions, and the significance of optimizing these constructions for particular designs, is essential for profitable and environment friendly 3D printing. Improperly configured helps can result in tough removing, floor imperfections on the ultimate print, and even print failures. Conversely, well-designed helps make sure the integrity of intricate designs, contributing to high-quality prints on the Kobra Max. This information allows customers to completely leverage the capabilities of the printer, translating intricate digital fashions into exactly fabricated bodily objects.
8. File Restore Instruments
File restore instruments play a vital function in making certain the printability of digital fashions meant for the Anycubic Kobra Max. 3D print recordsdata, whether or not in STL, OBJ, or 3MF codecs, can typically include errors that stop profitable printing. These errors, usually manifested as mesh defects like holes, inverted normals, or non-manifold edges, disrupt the slicing course of and may result in print failures. File restore instruments analyze these recordsdata for such errors and mechanically or semi-automatically right them, making certain compatibility with the Kobra Max and different 3D printers. For instance, a mannequin designed in CAD software program and exported as an STL may include unintentional gaps within the mesh. A file restore software can establish and bridge these gaps, making a watertight mesh appropriate for printing. One other frequent problem is inverted normals, the place the floor orientation of the mannequin is wrong, inflicting points with slicing and printing. File restore instruments can reorient these normals, making certain the mannequin is appropriately interpreted by the slicer and the Kobra Max.
The sensible significance of utilizing file restore instruments turns into evident when contemplating the potential penalties of printing corrupted recordsdata. Print failures attributable to file errors waste time, materials, and sources. In some instances, making an attempt to print a corrupted file may even injury the printer. File restore instruments mitigate these dangers by making certain the integrity of the digital mannequin earlier than printing commences. They’re notably priceless when working with advanced geometries or recordsdata sourced from third-party repositories, the place the chance of encountering errors is larger. As an example, a downloaded STL file of a posh mechanical meeting may include quite a few errors that stop profitable slicing. Using a file restore software can resolve these points, permitting for the seamless printing of the meeting on the Kobra Max.
Using file restore instruments as a pre-processing step contributes considerably to a streamlined and environment friendly 3D printing workflow on the Anycubic Kobra Max. These instruments safeguard towards print failures attributable to file corruption, making certain the integrity of digital fashions earlier than they’re translated into bodily objects. By addressing potential points early within the course of, file restore instruments save time, materials, and sources, whereas additionally defending the printer from potential injury. Understanding their significance and incorporating them into the workflow enhances the reliability and success fee of 3D printing on the Kobra Max, in the end resulting in higher-quality prints and a extra environment friendly utilization of the expertise.
9. Print Mattress Adhesion
Print mattress adhesion is paramount for profitable 3D printing on the Anycubic Kobra Max, immediately influencing the end result of digital designs represented in varied file codecs. A powerful bond between the primary layer of extruded filament and the print mattress is essential for stopping warping, detachment, and in the end, print failure. Digital recordsdata, whether or not STL, OBJ, or 3MF, include the geometric directions for the item, however the bodily realization of those directions depends closely on correct print mattress adhesion. A failure in adhesion can result in the printed object detaching from the mattress mid-print, rendering the digital file’s info ineffective and losing materials. For instance, a posh mannequin of a mechanical half, meticulously designed and sliced from an STL file, turns into meaningless if it detaches from the mattress attributable to poor adhesion. The success of translating the digital file right into a bodily object relies upon critically on this preliminary bond.
A number of elements affect print mattress adhesion, and their interaction is essential for profitable prints on the Kobra Max. The print mattress materials (e.g., glass, textured PEI), mattress temperature, and the primary layer settings inside the slicing software program all have an effect on adhesion. Particular supplies like PLA may adhere effectively to a heated glass mattress, whereas others like ABS may require a specialised coating or adhesive. Throughout the slicing software program, parameters like the primary layer top and extrusion width affect the preliminary contact and bonding with the mattress. As an example, a thinner first layer top may enhance adhesion on clean surfaces, whereas a wider extrusion width could be useful for textured beds. Furthermore, options inside the digital mannequin itself, akin to a big, flat base, can inherently promote higher adhesion. Conversely, a mannequin with a small or intricate preliminary layer may current adhesion challenges. Due to this fact, design issues inside the digital file itself additionally play a job in making certain profitable adhesion.
Efficient print mattress adhesion, bridging the hole between the digital illustration within the file and the bodily realization on the Kobra Max, is prime to profitable 3D printing. It ensures that the intricate particulars encoded inside the digital mannequin are precisely translated right into a tangible object. With out correct adhesion, the hassle invested in designing, making ready, and slicing the digital file turns into futile. Understanding the elements influencing print mattress adhesion, and implementing methods to optimize this significant first step, is important for attaining constant, high-quality outcomes on the Anycubic Kobra Max. This mastery interprets into environment friendly materials utilization, minimized print failures, and the profitable realization of advanced designs, in the end maximizing the potential of additive manufacturing.
Regularly Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries relating to digital file compatibility and utilization with the Anycubic Kobra Max 3D printer. Understanding these features is essential for profitable and environment friendly printing.
Query 1: What file codecs are suitable with the Anycubic Kobra Max?
The Kobra Max helps a number of frequent 3D printing file codecs, together with STL, OBJ, and 3MF. Whereas STL gives broad compatibility, OBJ supplies extra options like coloration and materials info. 3MF, designed particularly for additive manufacturing, permits for richer knowledge inclusion however might have restricted software program compatibility.
Query 2: How does mannequin orientation inside the file have an effect on printing?
Mannequin orientation considerably impacts print high quality, help construction era, and materials utilization. Optimizing orientation inside the digital file, usually by way of slicing software program, minimizes helps, improves floor end, and reduces print time.
Query 3: How does scaling a digital mannequin affect the ultimate print on the Kobra Max?
Scaling immediately impacts the ultimate dimensions of the printed object. Correct scaling ensures the print matches design specs, whereas acceptable sizing respects the Kobra Max’s construct quantity limitations. Scaling choices affect materials consumption and print length.
Query 4: What’s the function of slicing software program when working with recordsdata for the Kobra Max?
Slicing software program interprets the 3D mannequin knowledge into G-code directions understood by the printer. It additionally controls crucial print parameters like layer top, infill density, print velocity, and help era, considerably influencing print high quality and effectivity.
Query 5: Why are help constructions typically obligatory, and the way are they generated from the digital file?
Assist constructions present momentary scaffolding for overhanging options or intricate particulars that can’t be printed immediately onto the print mattress. Slicing software program analyzes the geometry inside the digital file and generates helps to forestall these options from collapsing or warping throughout printing.
Query 6: How can file restore instruments enhance printability on the Kobra Max?
File restore instruments establish and proper errors inside 3D fashions, akin to holes, inverted normals, and non-manifold edges. These errors can disrupt the slicing course of and result in print failures. Repairing these errors earlier than printing ensures file compatibility and improves print success charges.
Understanding these incessantly requested questions helps guarantee profitable and environment friendly utilization of the Anycubic Kobra Max with varied digital file codecs. Correct file preparation and manipulation are key to attaining high-quality 3D prints.
The subsequent part gives troubleshooting ideas for frequent points encountered whereas working with digital recordsdata on the Kobra Max.
Troubleshooting Suggestions for Anycubic Kobra Max Recordsdata
This part gives sensible troubleshooting steerage for frequent challenges encountered when making ready and using digital fashions with the Anycubic Kobra Max. Addressing these points proactively ensures smoother printing experiences and profitable outcomes.
Tip 1: Confirm File Integrity
Earlier than printing, make the most of file restore software program to establish and proper potential errors inside 3D fashions (STL, OBJ, 3MF). Mesh defects can disrupt slicing and trigger print failures. Repairing these points beforehand saves time and sources.
Tip 2: Optimize Mannequin Orientation
Strategic mannequin placement inside the digital print mattress considerably influences print high quality and help construction era. Orient fashions to attenuate overhangs and cut back the necessity for in depth helps, enhancing print time and floor end.
Tip 3: Validate Scaling and Sizing
Verify that the digital mannequin’s dimensions are appropriately scaled for the meant software. Outsized fashions exceed the Kobra Max’s construct quantity, whereas undersized prints may lack obligatory element. Correct scaling ensures practical and aesthetic necessities are met.
Tip 4: Configure Slicing Settings
Acceptable slicer settings are essential. Optimize parameters like layer top, infill density, print velocity, and help construction settings primarily based on the particular mannequin and desired print high quality. Incorrect settings can result in suboptimal outcomes or print failures.
Tip 5: Guarantee Correct Mattress Adhesion
A powerful bond between the primary layer and the print mattress is important. Confirm acceptable mattress temperature, mattress materials, and first layer settings inside the slicing software program. Poor adhesion could cause print detachment and failure.
Tip 6: Select Acceptable Filament
Totally different filaments have distinctive printing traits. Choose a filament suitable with the Kobra Max and acceptable for the meant software. Incorrect filament selection can result in adhesion points, warping, or different print defects.
Tip 7: Monitor Print Progress
Observe the preliminary layers of the print rigorously to detect any early indicators of adhesion issues or different points. Early intervention can save time and materials by stopping a full print failure. Common monitoring all through the print length permits for changes if obligatory.
Addressing these potential points proactively improves the reliability and effectivity of the 3D printing course of on the Anycubic Kobra Max. These troubleshooting ideas facilitate smoother workflows, cut back materials waste, and contribute to constantly profitable print outcomes.
The next conclusion summarizes the important thing takeaways relating to working with digital recordsdata for the Anycubic Kobra Max.
Conclusion
Profitable utilization of the Anycubic Kobra Max hinges on a complete understanding of digital file preparation and manipulation. Key elements influencing print outcomes embrace file format compatibility, mannequin orientation, scaling and sizing issues, slicing software program parameters, help construction era, file error correction, and print mattress adhesion. Every facet performs a crucial function in translating digital designs into high-quality bodily objects. Mastery of those components empowers customers to leverage the total potential of the Kobra Max, attaining environment friendly workflows, minimizing materials waste, and producing correct, practical prints.
Continued exploration and refinement of strategies associated to digital file administration inside the 3D printing workflow are important for advancing additive manufacturing capabilities. As expertise evolves and file codecs develop, ongoing studying and adaptation will stay essential for maximizing the potential of platforms just like the Anycubic Kobra Max, unlocking new prospects in design, prototyping, and fabrication.
