3D prints live on YouTube stream – Maker develops solution

Although 3D printing software such as OctoPrint has developed enormously in recent years, there are still challenges when it comes to integrating certain hardware combinations. One example of this is the live monitoring of printing processes via video stream. This is a useful function, but not all camera systems support it.

This was also the problem faced by Maker Reticulated. Although OctoPrint offers an interface for webcams, the Maker’s standard cameras were not compatible. Instead of purchasing new equipment, he developed a clever solution to integrate the existing webcams into OctoPrint via RTMP stream.

The core of his solution is the Monaserver software, which processes the RTMP streams from the cameras. OBS Studio then streams the video data to YouTube Live. Additional printer data such as extruder temperatures can be read out via the OctoPrint API and integrated into the stream as an overlay.

With its system, Reticulated demonstrates how existing webcam hardware can be cleverly used and expanded into a practical solution for live video monitoring of 3D printing processes by integrating it into open source software. You can find the instructions here.