Rep5x enables complex geometries without support structures through 5-axis printing
Rep5x democratises 5-axis 3D printing by creating an affordable retrofit system for consumer desktop 3D printers. The system adds two rotational axes (A and B) to standard XYZ printers, enabling:
- Support-free printing of complex overhangs
- Improved surface quality through optimal layer orientation
- Stronger parts by aligning layer direction with stress patterns
- Reduced material waste by eliminating support structures
For easier navigation, visit Rep5x.com for the same guides in a more user-friendly format.
Currently supported printers:
- Ender 5 Pro - Working prototype
- Ender 3 V3 SE - Working prototype with full documentation
- 3D printed parts:
build-guide/printer-specific/[your-printer]/3d-printed-parts/ - Parts list:
build-guide/universal-parts/bill-of-materials/bom-shared.md - Assembly guide:
build-guide/assembly-instructions-universal.md - Firmware:
build-guide/printer-specific/[your-printer]/firmware/
Discord: https://discord.gg/GNdah82VBg for build support and discussions
⭐ Star this repo to support open-source 5-axis printing development!
| Printer model | Status | Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Ender 5 Pro | ✅ Working prototype | Minimal |
| Ender 3 V3 SE | ✅ Working prototype | Complete |
| Generic | Guidelines only | Complete |
- Continuous A-axis rotation (unlimited yaw movement)
- >90° B-axis tilt for complex geometries
- Slip ring integration prevents cable tangling
- Modular design for different printer platforms
Rep5x/
├── build-guide/ # Complete build documentation
│ ├── assembly-guide.md # Step-by-step assembly instructions
│ ├── universal-parts/ # Components shared across all printers
│ │ ├── 3d-printed-parts/ # Universal STL files and CAD assembly
│ │ ├── bill-of-materials/ # Complete shared parts list
│ │ ├── electronics/ # Wiring diagrams and control boards
│ │ └── firmware/ # General firmware installation guide
│ └── printer-specific/ # Printer-specific adaptations
│ ├── ender-5-pro/ # Ender 5 Pro retrofit (working)
│ └── ender-3-v3-se/ # Ender 3 V3 SE retrofit (working)
├── website/ # Official Rep5x website (rep5x.com)
└── README.md # This file
Discord: https://discord.gg/GNdah82VBg
- Build support and troubleshooting
- Share your prints and modifications
- Development discussions
- Report issues and bugs
- Share your printer modifications
- Submit pull requests for improvements
- Help with documentation
- Request support for new printer models
Code of Conduct: Be respectful and constructive in all interactions.
- Ender 5 Pro working prototype
- Ender 3 V3 SE adaptation
- Complete documentation and assembly guide
- Marlin firmware configuration
- Setting up the Discord community
- Community guidelines for new printer adaptations
- Community testing and documentation feedback
- Support users building their first Rep5x systems
- Identify and fill documentation gaps
- Accelerate development through user contributions
- Additional printer model support based on community demand
The project's future depends on community involvement. We're focusing on enabling makers to:
- Adapt to new printer models with community support
- Improve documentation through collaborative contributions
- Develop slicing features as open-source solutions
- Share builds and modifications to help others
Join our Discord to help shape the project's direction and contribute to new printer model support!
This project is licensed under the GPL v3 License - see the LICENSE file for details.
This project builds upon the work of Janis Andersons at the University of Twente's research into multi-axis 3D printing systems.
Questions? Follow the repository or join our Discord for updates as new documentation and features are added.