FoldaRapX
Release status: in progress
Description | another folding reprap
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Principle
Back to the concept of a foldable RepRap using a scissor-like mechanism for the Z axis.
The main advantage is that this time the folding mechanism is part of the movement, and don't require any preparation for the machine to function... it will unfold as much as the part to print is tall. And makes for an even more lazy foldable RepRap : open the case, plug, print.
Build notes
- tensioning the z-belt should be done in the upward direction, in order to tension against gravity
To-Do
Version 0.2
- change the aluminium flight case (not cheap) for a regular wooden flight case (easier to use and customize)
- move the linear rail 5mm closer to the pivot, in order for the end rail (printed part) to play its role of mechanical stop
- if the aluminium plate were made with a CNC instead of a laser-cutter, we could include the tapping of the holes (would save lot of time)
- 24v
Version 0.1
- fine tune E step value (837 for start)
- test print
- tweaking RepRap Firmware for the scissor Z axis, probably using the logic for a linear delta (will need help here)
- add LED lights
- add Duet enclosure
- the now complete upper plate weight enough to move the gearbox of the z-motor (if motor off) : use a higher gearbox ratio, a worm drive, a nema 23 ?
R&D
once assembled there is more rigidity than what I feared to have, thanks to alternating the orientation of the scissors (good intuition here) the material works mostly in its horizontal plane, so even plastics seems fine (except that a scissor broke for pushing to far) - [video of a test move]
was imagined during the initial concept of the "FoldaRap2" mid-2012, then named "Mondrian" when it was not pursued at the time