Last Friday was quite exciting as we received quite the shipment from printrbot. I opened up a couple of the kits that @Brook_Drumm was so generous to donate. The parts are of exceptional quality (as always from printrbot
I immediately started designing the printed parts for the printer. I have decided on a design that uses 1/4inch or 6mm mdf board that will be laser cut for the main frame, with a mix of printed parts as well. I am trying to keep the design printable within a 100mm build area (which is working at the moment). Another key factor was making sure that the mdf is easy to cut without needing a laser cutter. I am using one due to pure speed over hand cutting each set, but the printed parts will also include parts designed to mark and drill holes. Like I said the key is keeping it easy to make with limited tools.
Here you can see Revision 2 (orange) of the z motor mounts. I designed it originally to hold the z smooth rod as well but as I realized I needed more room between them above, I decided to split them up. They are made to go right into the corner of the mdf and fit square and flush. The two press fitted bearing mounts are in revision 2 for their design and seem to be ready to go.
It doesn’t look like much right now but lots of printed parts are designed. It’s just getting them all printed when I have time. Only have one printer running right now. Once the first one is built then printing parts will kick into high gear.
Any comments/ suggestions are greatly appreciated!
Awesome! I need to release my design for this bag o parts too ;). I’ll cut one and offer a laser cut kit. This fun has inspired me to do a kit for ultra cheap w retired parts… Frankenbot is a cool name
I’m curious, do you have drawings of what the final assembly will be? Are you using dual z motors or a single. Is it using the same mechanics as the printrbot plus (it looks like it is)?
@Brook_Drumm it’s a heck of a nice set of parts. And the fact that they are tapped for screws already makes it a whole lot easier. Stay tuned for updates.
@Stephanie_A as for drawings… not at the moment. I didn’t want to make all the models for the bearings and other parts right off the bad as I’m trying to get one built asap (I need more printers printing haha). Once the design is finalized I can definitely get all parts including the mdf converted to 3d solid works files and will release a picture.
And Brook (sorry to keep tagging you) can give you a little more insight in terms of what parts are from the plus. I know the bearings and rods are, but aside from that I couldn’t tell you. Haven’t seen a plus 2.1 since maker fair last year so the parts are a blur.
@Jon_Gordon thanks! Can’t decide whether to print it all in white or orange. I’ve had some diameter inconsistencies with the white spool which is why it looks crazy over extruded but I really want a red white and blue printer. Might just have to tough it out and print in the white!! Stay posted for updates.
This project was a success! It has spawned a starter kit that will soon be available for $199
It’s ugly but very simple and function over form. It is meant to only be a starting point as a RepRap. Kids will design new parts to extend its build envelope with the included parts and improve rigidity. I would love for a new RepRap to emerge as 100% designed by kids.
I used some retired, but available parts, like the 12mm bearing blocks… As they sell out, I will replace with in-stock parts, but keep the $199 price. It will probably end up becoming a beautiful design, but this does ear has a ways to go before becoming a silk purse
I’m hoping to have it in the store today or tomorrow!
I gave away a bunch of bare bones kits to kids and teachers. The idea is a kit to go old school RepRap. I’m starting w laser cut parts that can also be easily printed. There will be several designs in the PrintrBot original genre. I’ll post a kit in my shop soon w very limited quantity and see how it goes
