BamBuddy: Open-source tool replaces Bambu Cloud for managing and automating 3D printing jobs

BamBuddy is an open-source project that aims to manage Bambu Lab 3D printers without connecting to the manufacturer’s cloud services. Many devices today use Bambu Lab’s online ecosystem for remote monitoring, job control, profile sharing, and access to MakerWorld. However, a permanent connection to the manufacturer’s servers is not attractive to all operators. Especially where IT security and internal regulations play a major role, an external cloud connection is considered a risk. Others simply want to operate their printing environment entirely within their own network and not relinquish control over data, jobs, and processes.

Bambu Lab offers standalone operation in “Developer Mode” for this purpose. However, this means that some of the usual functions are not available. BamBuddy aims to close this gap and map local workflows. The open-source project bundles tools for archiving, monitoring, and automation. At its core is a print archive that automatically stores 3MF files including metadata, recognizes duplicates, and links photos for documentation purposes.

For operation, BamBuddy provides real-time status displays via WebSocket, logs HMS errors, and statistically evaluates print runs, including trend views of the success rate. In addition, there is 3D visualization: an interactive model viewer based on Three.js is designed to make models verifiable before launch. For organizing multiple jobs, there is a drag-and-drop queue with time-based scheduling. Power supply can also be automated via integrations with Tasmota and Home Assistant.

BamBuddy supports notifications via WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, and email, as well as services such as Pushover and ntfy. Templates and rest periods are configurable. The software runs as a Python application on a local computer or server, and a Docker package is also available for installation. BamBuddy offers APIs and webhooks for connecting to other systems. The list of features is so extensive that in some cases it even exceeds what Bambu Lab offers in its own cloud.