Breaking New “Grounds” with 3D Printing!

Recently, I was gifted a gently used K-pod-style coffee machine. While I’ve thoroughly enjoyed sipping on freshly brewed coffee during my commute to the library, I stumbled upon a slight issue. To make my coffee habit more sustainable and environmentally friendly, I switched to using a reusable filter. This plastic pod works perfectly, but filling it with coffee grounds has proven to be a bit of a messy chore!

Realizing that many others using reusable pods might be facing the same challenge, I decided to tackle this problem head-on at Do Space. Here’s how I used 3D printing to find a creative solution.

Research and Planning

First, I turned to my favorite online 3D print file libraries for inspiration. Sure enough, I found several designs created specifically to address this issue. After browsing through reviews and evaluating functionality, I selected three files to print:

1. A Coffee Scoop: This highly-rated design from Thingiverse (link) was tailored to fit neatly into the reusable pod while holding the perfect amount of coffee grounds. No more overfilling or spills!
2. A Funnel and Stand: Another popular project on Thingiverse (link) caught my eye. This set included a funnel for easier coffee transfer and a stand to hold the pod securely during the filling process.

Printing Process

With my files ready, I reserved a Bambu Labs P1P printer at the Do Space for an afternoon session. Here’s how each item fared:

• The Scoop: This was a straightforward print. It’s well-designed to nestle into the pod perfectly, making filling it much easier and more precise.
• The Funnel: While promising, this design posed a challenge. As originally laid out in the file, it required removable supports for printing. To avoid the extra step, I flipped the design upside down (mirroring it along the Z-axis in Bambu Studio). This method eliminated the need for supports, making the process smoother.
• The Stand: For this piece, I opted for a higher infill percentage to add weight and durability. This ensured it wouldn’t tip over easily during use.

Results and Adjustments

While the scoop and stand turned out perfectly, the funnel’s design proved fragile. It broke during cleaning before its first use. Thankfully, I discovered that the combination of the stand and scoop rendered the funnel unnecessary. The system works wonderfully without it!

Final Thoughts

This little project took only about an hour to print and has already made a big impact. Filling my coffee pod is now quick, tidy, and hassle-free. Not to mention, these tools have earned rave reviews from my household.

Exploring practical 3D printing projects like this not only solves everyday problems but also demonstrates the versatility of 3D printing technology. If you’re facing a similar coffee-related dilemma—or any other small challenge—why not give 3D printing a try? You might just find the perfect solution at Do Space!