Overview

The reflector on the FieldPrinter is a precision optical component. The laser tracker locks onto it to calculate the robot’s position in real time. Construction jobsites generate dust, debris, and ink overspray that can accumulate on the reflector surface and degrade tracking performance.

Keeping the reflector clean is a simple step that helps maintain reliable tracking and stationing accuracy.

What You’ll See

A dirty or contaminated reflector may cause:

• Intermittent laser lock loss during printing
• Laser health warnings in the Dusty App
• Unexpectedly high stationing error values
• Tracking interruptions that repeatedly return
• Tracker unable to acquire lock, especially at longer distances

If cleaning the reflector resolves the issue, no additional troubleshooting is typically required.

What You’ll Need

• A clean, dry microfiber cloth or lint-free optical wipe
• Compressed air (optional, for loose debris)
• No liquids, solvents, or sprays of any kind

How to Clean the Reflector

1. Pause printing or power down the robot before handling the reflector.
2. Remove the reflector from the cradle by lifting it straight up.
3. Inspect the glass surface under good lighting.
   • Look for dust, smudges, fingerprints, ink overspray, or debris.
4. Remove loose debris first.
   • If particles are present, use a gentle burst of compressed air before wiping.
   • Wiping debris across the glass can create fine scratches.
5. Wipe the glass surface using a dry microfiber cloth or lint-free optical wipe.
   • Use light, circular motions.
   • Do not apply pressure.
6. Do not use liquids or solvents.
   • Avoid alcohol wipes, water, or cleaning sprays.
   • These products can damage the reflective coating.
7. Clean the cradle on the FieldPrinter.
   • Remove dust or debris from inside the cradle before reseating the reflector.
   • Debris in the cradle can prevent proper seating even if the reflector itself is clean.
8. Reseat the reflector fully and flush into the cradle.
   • Confirm the reflector sits between the cradle grooves.
   • Verify there is no rocking or wobble.
   • See Ensuring the Reflector is Properly Seated on the FieldPrinter for additional seating guidance.
9. Resume printing or re-station and confirm tracking has stabilized.

What to Avoid

• Do not touch the glass surface with bare fingers.
  • Skin oils can interfere with the laser signal.
• Do not use paper towels or shop rags.
  • These materials can scratch the optical surface.
• Do not apply liquids directly to the reflector.
  • This includes water, alcohol, or cleaning sprays.
• Do not continue printing with a visibly dirty reflector.
  • Tracking reliability and print quality may become inconsistent.

Best Practices

• Inspect the reflector at the start of every shift as part of setup.
• Clean after dusty or high-ink conditions, including slab grinding, saw cutting, or overhead work.
• Store the reflector in its case when not in use.
• Handle the reflector by the mount or base, not the glass.
• Replace damaged reflectors if scratches, chips, or coating damage are visible.