The Bondtech INDX represents a paradigm shift in the world of multi-material 3D printing. Officially unveiled at Formnext 2025, this automatic tool change system introduces never-before-seen technologies: wireless induction heating, ultra-light passive tools and a dynamic self-adjusting extruder. All with electronic support from Duet3D.
In this article we look at what the INDX is, how it works, why it is different from any other tool changer and when it will be available.
What is INDX and why is it revolutionary
INDX stands for INduction Dynamic eXtruder. Unlike traditional tool changers that swap out the entire printhead (motor, gears, heater, thermistor, sensors and wiring), the INDX uses a radically different architecture: a single active Smart head that picks up and releases ultra-lightweight passive tools.
Imagine an electric razor: the body contains all the electronics and mechanics, while the interchangeable blades are simple and inexpensive. This is exactly the principle behind the INDX.
How it works: the technology behind the INDX
Wireless induction heating
The heart of the innovation is induction heating: the INDX heats the nozzles of passive tools without physical contact and without cables. This allows for extremely light, simple and low-cost tools. The thermal mass is so low that virtually all the energy is used to melt the plastic directly.
Ultra-light passive tools
Passive tools do not have hotend in the traditional sense: they are minimalist mechanical structures where the plastic is melted directly by induction. Each additional tool has an expected cost of around EUR 35, making multi-material scalability much more affordable than conventional tool changers.
Dynamic Dual Extruder Drive self-adjusting
The Smart Head incorporates the Dynamic Dual Drive (DDD) system from Bondtech with a cam mechanism that automatically adjusts the distance between the drive gears. This means no manual adjustment when changing material: the extruder adjusts itself.
Contactless temperature reading
The nozzle temperature is sensed without contact, eliminating the need for thermistors or thermocouples on passive tools. This further simplifies the design and reduces potential failure points.
The role of Duet3D
Duet3D designed a customised Tool Board that integrates seamlessly with the INDX, simplifying wiring and adding functionality such as an accelerometer and scanning Z-probe. RepRapFirmware (RRF) firmware support is being developed in direct collaboration with Bondtech, with the aim of being available when the INDX is launched.
The INDX is also compatible with Klipper and Marlin, providing maximum flexibility for any firmware configuration.
Technical Specifications
|
Feature |
Detail |
|
Type |
Automatic tool changer |
|
Heating |
Wireless induction |
|
Temperature sensor |
Contactless |
|
Nozzle sensor |
Bi-directional load cell |
|
Max. nozzle temperature |
≥ 300 °C |
|
Max. flow rate |
40 mm³/s (at 220 °C) |
|
Toolhead weight |
345 g (with one tool) |
|
Min. distance between tools |
35 mm |
|
Tool change time |
~16 seconds |
|
Max. no. of tools |
At least 8 (theoretically 10) |
|
Filament |
1.75 mm |
|
Firmware supported |
Klipper, Marlin, RRF |
Compatibility and integration
The INDX was developed as a native upgrade for the Prusa Core One/Core One+, with an official partnership between Bondtech and Prusa Research. However, thanks to the open-source philosophy of Bondtech (files CAD available on GitHub), the INDX can also be integrated on Voron, custom printers and other platforms CoreXY.
Advantages over traditional tool changers
The main advantages of INDX over traditional tool changers are numerous. The cost per additional tool is drastically lower (around EUR 35 versus hundreds of euros for a complete head). Material waste is almost zero compared to filament switching systems. The reduced weight of the tools allows higher accelerations. The absence of cables on the passive tools eliminates wear and reliability problems. In addition, multi-firmware compatibility provides freedom in platform choice.
Availability and timing
Founders Edition pre-orders sold out in minutes at Formnext 2025. Retail sales are scheduled for Q2 2026. At DHM-online, as authorised resellers Duet3D and Bondtech, we are closely following the development of the INDX and will be among the first to offer it as soon as it becomes available. Subscribe to the newsletter DHM to stay up-to-date.
The Duet3D ecosystem at DHM-online
On DHM-online you will find the entire range of boards Duet3D: from the Duet 3 Mainboard 6HC to the 6XD for CNC, from expansion boards to tool boards, from PanelDue to sensors and accessories. Everything you need to build and control advanced machines with RepRapFirmware.
