thinkaweek: December 2009

12.31.2009

electronics and electronics box parts

Repstrap Parts Under Construction

Here are a few parts that have been built so far. We are gettign close to an actual assembly now.

So here is the diagram of how we think all the software fits together.

The second diagram is from replicat.org and was very helpful for understanding How to take 3d designs from the computer to the electronics. One catch is that we didn't know we needed the usb-tty cable so after a few attempts to build one we decided to order it online. Hopefully it get's here before the end of the week. Yes it's a major set back but these types of things are expected. There is plenty of work here so we are just moving on.

The third image is just some install notes for all the software.

2 Paths Under Development

Now that the base is complete. We are going to start down two paths of development. One path for the software and makerbot electronics and the second for machining and constructing the robot.

Software & Electronics assembly: prior to thinkaweek we gathered up all the hardware for the Ubuntu PC. We also installed Ubuntu and generally had it running. We also placed all of our electronics orders and hoped they would all show up by Christmas.

Robot Construction: Some of the machine work also started prior to thinkaweek but not all of it was done. The main parts to connect the Y axis to the A frames was started, also the Z axis blocks were almost ready. We still need to fit size and place everything so there are a ton of unknowns right now.

Making the Base 2

Glue screws and a little reinforcement and the base is ready for the 4 foot slate top.

a thin layer of foam stuck down with a super thin layer of double sided tape to take out any leveling problems.

A quick bath and we have the final base made. Rock Solid ! as they say. We kinda like the medieval look it has.

Making The Base

12.23.2009

Just catching up before the build starts

I thought I would just get some of the drawings, pictures, and notes into the blog as we prepare to build over the Christmas holiday. We have been scrounging and order parts since October in an attempt to have everything we might need to complete the printer by January 1, 2010.

In advance thanks to everyone that has contributed to the Reprap project. Your thinking makes us think.

Advancing Past The Duct Tape Mock Up

Special Thanks to CR for the drawings.

Stepper Motor Brackets Coming Along

PLA Roll Has Arrived!

Quick Design Notes #1

Trash compactor screws will make a better Z and we will stick with a faster cable or belt drive on X.

A 36" plotter for the last axis has been found.

the lead screw for the table axis. I pulled two long screws out of dads old trash compactor.

A new source for a granite base is old pool tables

Lin Engineering 4218L-01D-02 bipolar stepper motor Item: 28M063 Price: $8.95

makerbot mostly assembled electronics

misc. electronics parts from Mouser and Digikey

Pullys and belts from Stock Drive Products and Sterling Instrument.