This guide shows you how to remove and replace a wind guard on the FieldPrinter 2. Wind guards protect the ink stream from wind while the robot prints. If a wind guard's rubber edge is worn, torn, or bent, swap it out so your lines stay crisp.
The FieldPrinter has one wind guard on each side of the robot — one per print head. You can replace one or both using the same steps.
When to Replace a Wind Guard
Replace a wind guard when its black rubber edge is worn down, torn, or bent out of shape. A damaged wind guard can let wind disturb the ink or drag against the floor and smudge fresh prints, which shows up as faded, wavy, or blurred lines.
You replace the wind guard as a single unit. The black rubber piece and its mount are fused together and can't be separated, so if the rubber is damaged, the whole wind guard assembly gets swapped.
Prerequisites
- One or two replacement wind guards. To request replacements, contact Dusty Support at support@dustyrobotics.com.
- A clear, flat surface (like a workbench) where you can safely tilt the robot on its side.
- No tools are required.
Steps
1. Tilt the FieldPrinter on Its Side
Rotate the FieldPrinter onto its side so you can reach the wind guard on the underside of the print stall (the print-head housing on the bottom of the robot).
2. Remove the Old Wind Guard
Place your finger along the inner side of the plastic wind guard frame for leverage, then slide the wind guard out of its slot.
3. Install the Replacement Wind Guard
- Line up the hook on the wind guard with the matching slot on the bottom of the print stall.
- Insert the inner slot into the hole first, then align the outer hook with the outer slot.
- Firmly push the wind guard toward the center of the robot until it clicks and locks into place.
4. Replace the Wind Guard on the Other Side (if needed)
Rotate the robot to its other side and repeat steps 1–3 for the second wind guard.
Verify It Worked
Set the robot back upright. Each new wind guard should sit flush in its slot and stay put when you gently tug on it. If a guard slides out or feels loose, reseat it by repeating step 3.