Opto-interrupters instead of steppers?

I am trying to build a 3D printer using 2D printers. Would it be possible to use the existing DC motor and opto interrupter setup rather than using steppers? Is there any code out there for something like this?

Hi,

There were a thread by the past. Try a search with "DC motors".
Nothing was built, but the thread is interesting through.

++JM

What you're trying to do is use servo motors. I have seen videos of 3D printers operating with servo motors- try a web/youtube search.

The reason most machines use steppers is that they provide sufficient accuracy and precision without the more complex electronics required to drive servos. In order for a servo to provide similar resolution routinely achievable with a stepper you need a high resolution encoder. Hi-res encoders tend to be expensive.

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Ultra MegaMax Dominator 3D printer: [drmrehorst.blogspot.com]

RepStrap: X-Axis DC Motor and Linear Optical Encoder repurposed from an old InkJet Printer
Arduino Pro-Mini running the DC motor, and reading the high resolution Linear Optical Encoder for positioning.

Linear Optical Encoder

With 3800 divisions on the encoder strip over its 14" length, you get about 11 divisions/mm. Not very high resolution compared to the 80+ usteps per mm you get with a typical stepper setup. OTOH, a lot of printers probably can't deliver better than 100 um resolution anyway, due to slop in bearings and flex in frame and guide rails, so it might work fine. It would be nice to see one actually working in a 3D printer, and some close up photos of the resulting prints.

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Ultra MegaMax Dominator 3D printer: [drmrehorst.blogspot.com]

@J-max

What do you mean "Nothing was built"?

[www.youtube.com]

Google for closed loop reprap

Lots of details here [www.youmagine.com]

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 11/28/2015 09:38PM by Dust.