So Much Left to Do

So far I've built the frame, and collected most of the electronic components I'll need.  It's tempting to feel like I'm almost done.  The printer will be up and running in no time.  But the reality is this project has still got a long way to go.

I still need to figure out what I'm going to use for the trucks/carriages, the arms/push-rods, and the effector.  After that, I need to come up with a build plate, and wiring to connect everything together.

Close up of Arduino mounts and end caps

I'm coming to the realization that I've started reaching the limits of what I'm going to be able to use off the shelf parts for on this printer.  I've used standard electronics so far, and less common, but still pretty common, 1 inch framing.  But the arms and the effector are going to be so uncommonly large that I might have to start improvising some things.

I looked into buying a set of trucks, searching the usual internets.  There are lots of options for smaller extrusions, but for 1 inch the options are extremely limited.  SeeMeCNC's four wheeled design, costing  around $40 is a pretty good deal.  But since the body isn't 3D printed, I don't think i would be able to adapt it to magnetic push rods.  Magnetic push rod ends and effector plate connections are a must at this point, not only because of the cool factor, from a functional and safety standpoint I can't see not having them.  

I ordered 12 of the R4ZZ 1/4ID x 5/8OD x .196W Ball Bearing from SeeMeCNC.  These are the ones they use in their carriages.   I'll have to design and 3d print the wheels and body of the carriages because I haven't found a design out there that fully fits my needs.  At least I've got the bearings now though.

The effector will be 3D printed, with magnets glued in.  My Up! can reach temperatures of 270+ degrees, so I can print one out of a high temperature plastic such as polycarbonate. 

For the push-rods, there are a few common options.  Aluminum and carbon fiber rods are available in different sizes and length, and both are very strong and lightweight.  But both are somewhat expensive compared to another idea I have in mind. I've got a super secret idea up my sleeve that just might be a game changer.  I can't tell you what it is yet.  Its available at any hobby supply store, and offers incredible strength to weight while being very inexpensive.

The motors and end-stops both come with a foot or so of wiring, which would be enough to use as-is on a smaller size printer.  Now that I've got the frame mocked up, I'm realizing just how massive this machine is.  It barely fits on my desk.  If it slides a half an inch, it sticks off to one side.  I'll need extra wiring to connect the motors and end-stops because they're so far apart from the Ardiuno.

The Bowden tube I ordered forever ago on eBay finally arrived.  It was really nice.  A little too nice.  I chopped it up and used it to replace the old ratty one on my Up!, so I'll have to order another one.