Easily Spoof Bambu Labs 3D Printer Build Plate ArUco Tags

Bambu Labs is a relatively new player in the 3D printing industry, but they've made a massive impact with their intuitive and user-friendly machines. To alleviate many of the headaches normally associated with 3D printing, Bambu Labs integrates many smart features. For example, their filament spools contain RFID tags so the AMS (Automatic Material System) can recognize the material and automatically load the proper settings. Similarly, Bambu Labs build plates have printed codes and you will get an error message if the printer doesn't see a code. This guide from Elumspe will show you how to add your own codes to third-party plates and avoid those errors.

Bambu Labs puts these codes (called AruCo tags, which are similar to QR codes) on their build plates so the printers can verify that they are properly placed and aligned. That makes perfect sense, because Bambu Labs is all about using technology to ensure reliable printing. Bambu Labs doesn't prevent users from utilizing third-party build plates, but the error message before every print could be annoying. And, of course, you lose that particular self-check feature. Elumspe's guide shows you how to add your own AruCo tag so your third-party build plate will work just like an OEM build plate.

To start, you'll need to print out the proper AruCo tag for your build plate type. Elumspe provides codes for textured plates, high-temperature plates, engineering plates, and cool plates. After printing that tag at the proper size, you'll need to carefully cut it out. Then you can 3D-print a template that will help you place and align the tag on the build plate. You can then attach that tag to your plate.

Elumspe suggests a couple of methods for printing the tags. You can use a Brother P-Touch label maker, which gives you a handy self-adhesive tag. Or you can print the code on a shipping label, which is also self-adhesive. Finally, you can print it on standard paper and use an appropriate glue.

This is a nice, simple solution for people that want to use third-party build plates. If you attach the tag as instructed, that third-party build plate will go through the plate detection check just like an OEM Bambu Labs build plate