iDryer¶
iDryer is an open ecosystem for filament drying and storage. It includes two hardware platforms (iDryer X and iDryer Unit), a shared controller, and a cloud portal for managing the entire ecosystem.
History and evolution¶
The project started with iDryer X — a dryer with a proprietary Arduino-based controller and a PIR panel enclosure. As the community grew, iDryer Unit was introduced as a more accessible option with a fully printable enclosure — a simpler entry point into the iDryer world.
Today both devices run on the same platform — iDryer Controller based on RP2040. One firmware, one portal, one ecosystem regardless of which device is used.
The original iDryer X controller and firmware continue to work and are maintained by the community. Core development is now focused on the Controller platform, the portal, and integration with existing printer management ecosystems.
Devices¶
iDryer X¶
The original device with a PIR panel enclosure. Holds up to four spools. Built with a 2 mm metal floor and metal spool holders — durable and long-lasting, but requires more effort to build.
Suited for those ready to invest time in assembly and looking for a maximally robust solution with an energy-efficient enclosure.
→ iDryer X
iDryer Unit¶
A modular system with a printable enclosure: one to four independent chambers (MCU + up to three EXT boards). The enclosure and mechanics print entirely on any 3D printer. Faster and simpler to build than iDryer X.
Works as an entry point and scales up as needed.
Controller¶
iDryer Controller is the shared management platform for both iDryer X and iDryer Unit. Connects to a host via USB-C or operates standalone with WiFi via iDryer Link.
Supported hardware:
- Scales (HX711) — measures actual spool weight. Unlike slicer-based filament tracking, this is real weight: material density varies between filaments, and only a scale gives accurate data.
- RFID — automatic spool identification when placed on the scale.
- OLED display and encoder — local control without the portal.
- Addressable LED strip — visual mode indication.
Klipper is supported. The Standalone firmware, however, provides significantly more capability: it is not just dryer control, but a filament inventory management system combined with the portal.
iDryer Link¶
WiFi connectivity module over RJ45. Connects to the controller and provides access to the local network and the portal. Control via browser on the local network or through portal.idryer.org from any device.
Portal¶
portal.idryer.org is a unified cloud platform for managing iDryer devices: dryers, heaters, and everything that will be added to the ecosystem.
What's available:
- Spool catalog with actual remaining weight. Data comes automatically from the scale — no manual records, no approximate calculations.
- Automatic drying profile selection when a spool is placed on the scale with RFID: the spool is identified, the profile loads automatically.
- History and telemetry — full log of drying sessions, temperature, and humidity per chamber.
- Drying and print profiles — save, share, and export in formats compatible with your slicer.
- Remote management from a phone or browser — no local network required.
- Ecosystem integrations with printer management platforms — in development.
The mobile app is available on App Store and Google Play.
