Abstract: An improved 3D printer includes an airflow enabled print bed ensuring secure placement of a print base prior to printing. The modular assembly technique provides for improved ease of manufacture and assembly, as well as adjustments of print sizing. The improved printhead includes a heat sink disposed internally therein for improved heat and cooling properties. The printhead itself includes z-axis position detection techniques. The inclusion of VSU insertion techniques in software modeling and printing further improves the print operations by including vertical stability for the print object.

Abstract: A 3D printer calibration system and method includes a controller controlling movement of the 3D printer printhead in a first axis, such as the z-axis. The printhead includes a hotend for depositing material to generate the 3D printing. The hotend is connected to the printhead via a connector being moveable along the first axis. The hotend further includes an arm that extends outward from the side of the hotend. An optical sensor assembly is affixed to the printhead, the optical sensor assembly that has a light emitter and a light detector. The controller calibrates a starting position for the printhead based on the first axis deflection of the hotend as detected by the optical sensor assembly. The connector allowing first axis deflection of the hotend distinct from the first axis movement of the printhead.