https://reprap.org/mediawiki/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Anton&feedformat=atomRepRap - User contributions [en]2024-03-29T15:47:15ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.30.0https://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7730RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T13:48:38Z<p>Anton: /* Electronics */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
This section lists various places where the community stores various resources and links, like forums, blogs, printable objects.<br />
<br />
The most important part of the RepRap community are the <br />
[[:Category:RUG| RepRap User Groups]] (RUG). The RUGs are where RepRap (and RepRap-derivative) users get together to share parts and to build new RepRaps. You may have a RUG [http://dev.forums.reprap.org/index.php?19 near you] <br />
<br />
==Objects==<br />
The object libraries contains design databases of objects, published and designed, usually there are no restrictions on the use these designs, meaning no strings attached, no royalties etc. You should check the license of each individual object, some are completely free, others require at if you modify the design, you make the design publicly available, yet others restrict their use to non commercial use.<br />
{|border="1"<br />
|[http://www.thingiverse.com/ Thingiverse]<br />
| By far the largest collection, not all the objects can be created using reprap, some require a laser cutter or other esoteric machines, but most are printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Available_Files RepRep object library]<br />
|This library is part of the reprap project, and contains objects printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://theproductbay.org/ The Product Bay]<br />
|This site was announced in January 2010, but so far there appears to be no activity. The concept behind it seems to be inspired by The Pirate Bays use of bittorrent as method of sharing object designs.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Wiki==<br />
The following pages contains descriptions of modifications and changes which can be done to a RepRap. They contain links to pages with designs for: completely different machines, alternative tool heads, various objects which makes using a RepRap easier. The projects are in various states, some are 100% complete others are still under ongoing development. This is the place to go, for inspiration on how to improve your RepRap.<br />
<br />
*[[:Category:All_Developments]]<br />
*[[Builders]]<br />
<br />
==Forums/Mailing Lists==<br />
There is a quite active forum, where development tips are shared and new designs are discussed.<br />
<br />
*[http://forums.reprap.org/ User Forums]<br />
<br />
==Blogs==<br />
There is a main blog for the project, the blog is primarily used as place to showcase new developments related directly to the RepRap, on top of that most active project participants have a personal blog, where they keep a journal of their activities. There is an ongoing attempt to try and consolidate the information from the personal blogs into the wiki. The blogs are a good place to go for information about some of the individuals development.<br />
<br />
Some blogs contains detailed research information into the various sub-components of the RepRap others detail the construction of RepRap machines. The quality of information, update rates, etc., like with any other blog, varies from blog to blog. Most contains very good and solid information, and are definitely worth exploring.<br />
<br />
*[http://blog.reprap.org/ Main Blog]<br />
*[http://builders.reprap.org/ Builder's Blog]<br />
*[http://www.google.com/reader/bundle/user%2F04483651751598287761%2Fbundle%2FRepRap%20RepStrap%20Aggregate%20Feed Aggregation of Blogs]<br />
<br />
= Overall composition of the RepRap =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Extruders|Category:Extruders]]'''<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one combined structure, which increases the weight of the printer head.<br />
<br />
===== Pinch wheel vs. Worm gear vs. direct drive =====<br />
The two most common methods of pushing the welding rod into the heater and out of the plastruder orifice are the ''pinch wheel'' mechanism and the ''worm gear'' mechanism.<br />
<br />
====== Pinch wheel ======<br />
[[image:PinchWheel.jpg|thumb|Image of a pinch wheel design]]<br />
In the pinch wheel design the axle of the motor either has indentation grooves or a small small gear which grips the plastic rod, the primary benefit of this design is its simplicity, at the cost of requiring the motor to turn slowly as well as the torque required to directly operate on the plastic rod.<br />
<br />
====== Worm gear ======<br />
[[image:worm_drive.jpg|thumb|Image of a worm gear design (from the [http://hydraraptor.blogspot.com/2009/10/worm-drive.html Hydraraptor] blog)]]<br />
The worm drive overcomes many of the issues with the pinch wheel design, due to the gearing the motor can turn at higher RPMs and less torque is required, the downside to this mechanism is that it requires more machined parts.<br />
<br />
====== Direct drive ======<br />
[[image:direct-drive.jpg|thumb|Image of a direct-drive design]]<br />
This type plastruder is starting go out of commission, due to the improved designs mentioned above. It is listed here more out of historical interests. It suffers from a number of draw backs, like complexity of the design, difficulties with starting and stopping the flow of plastic, causing printed objects to look like porcupines, with small pieces of leftover plastic protruding everywhere (A problem sometimes referred to as "incontinence"), further more it is difficult to mount the vertical drive screw to the axle of the large gear, causing frequent breakdowns.<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
This tool head is still under development, the goal is to make it possible for the RepRap to layout a section of wire, the current experiments are focused on copper wire, but the principle behind the SpoolHead should make it possible to layout other types of wires as well.<br />
<br />
Some of the potentials of this tool head is laying out wires for circuit boards, wiring of spools for motors, both linear and rotratry.<br />
<br />
See: [[SpoolHead]]<br />
<br />
===Milling Toolheads===<br />
<br />
Milling wood, PCBs(electronics) and metals.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:MillingToolheads|Category:MillingToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Pen-Holders===<br />
<br />
Drawing and painting with the carthersian bot.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:PenHolderToolheads|Category:PenHolderToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Others===<br />
<br />
laser-cutting, pick and place or adapters to mount the toolheads of [[RepMan]], [[Cupcake]] or other printers.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the [[Mendel]] and [[Darwin]] -generation, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system polar coordinate system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The [[Darwin]] (generation 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box.<br/><br />
Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: <br />
*a box like shape and<br />
*a threaded rod in each of the four corners.<br />
On the Darwin and it´s offsprings like the [[RepMan]] the tool head moves along the X and Y axes and the bed moves up and down along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The [[Mendel]] (generation 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. <br/><br />
The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using belt mechanisms.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet. There is even a kit-build printer called the Makerbot [[Cupcake]] ment to be just big enough to print Darwin or Mendel parts.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts]. The [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so this link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap. But most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions.<br/><br />
In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions. Unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine and then be scraped for other purposes (like becomming a CNC milling machine, where threaded rods perform better against vibration).<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help to make the RepStrapp move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation to the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made or pre-assembled kits, like the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BitsFromBytes] [[RapMan]]/[[RapMan|RapMan Pro]] or the [[Makerbot]] [[Cupcake]] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (generation 1). Although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel. The RepMan is even known to be more sturdy and reliable then the Mendel.<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pneumatics====<br />
Pneumatics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001mm precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
The circuit boards of the RepRap, like most everything else has undergone a rapid series of updates and upgrades. The electronics can be divided several categories<br />
=== Main board ===<br />
The main board is responsible for co-ordination between all the sub components of the electronics as well as interacting with the PC driving the RepRap. The primary feature of the main board is a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microcontroller microcontroller]. The micro-controller executes a program just like the CPU of a computer does, but instead of using a keyboard and a display as an output mechanism, input/output is done via either sampling the current on one of the pins of the IC or sending out current one of the pins. Which pin is use for input and output is under complete, and the state of output, current/no current or anything in between is under control of the program executed by the microcontroller.<br />
<br />
The first version of the main board featured a PIC microcontroller, whereas more recent designs feature the AVR microcontroller. In order to make as wide a range of microcontroller brands available, the firmware of the RepRap has been designed to be compiled by the GNU GCC compiler tool chain. In fact, some people are looking into using the ARM processor.<br />
<br />
The shift from PIC to AVR was motivated by the [http://www.arduino.cc/ Arduino] microcontroller board. The Arduino is an open source hardware project, just like the RepRap, The goal of Arduino is to make it simple to work on custom electronics design using a simple microcontroller. The version 2.3 of the RepRap main board, features a slightly modified version of the Arduino as a part of the components on the circuit board, this slightly modified version was named the [http://sanguino.cc/ Sanguino]. The Sanguino features a more powerful AVR microcontroller than the Arduino, both in terms of the number of pins which can be used for IO and in terms of memory.<br />
=== Stepper drivers ===<br />
=== Extruder controller ===<br />
=== Opto endstops ===<br />
=== Others ===<br />
<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7729RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T11:33:35Z<p>Anton: /* Pinch wheel vs. Worm Gear */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
This section lists various places where the community stores various resources and links, like forums, blogs, printable objects.<br />
<br />
The most important part of the RepRap community are the <br />
[[:Category:RUG| RepRap User Groups]] (RUG). The RUGs are where RepRap (and RepRap-derivative) users get together to share parts and to build new RepRaps. You may have a RUG [http://dev.forums.reprap.org/index.php?19 near you] <br />
<br />
==Objects==<br />
The object libraries contains design databases of objects, published and designed, usually there are no restrictions on the use these designs, meaning no strings attached, no royalties etc. You should check the license of each individual object, some are completely free, others require at if you modify the design, you make the design publicly available, yet others restrict their use to non commercial use.<br />
{|border="1"<br />
|[http://www.thingiverse.com/ Thingiverse]<br />
| By far the largest collection, not all the objects can be created using reprap, some require a laser cutter or other esoteric machines, but most are printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Available_Files RepRep object library]<br />
|This library is part of the reprap project, and contains objects printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://theproductbay.org/ The Product Bay]<br />
|This site was announced in January 2010, but so far there appears to be no activity. The concept behind it seems to be inspired by The Pirate Bays use of bittorrent as method of sharing object designs.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Wiki==<br />
The following pages contains descriptions of modifications and changes which can be done to a RepRap. They contain links to pages with designs for: completely different machines, alternative tool heads, various objects which makes using a RepRap easier. The projects are in various states, some are 100% complete others are still under ongoing development. This is the place to go, for inspiration on how to improve your RepRap.<br />
<br />
*[[:Category:All_Developments]]<br />
*[[Builders]]<br />
<br />
==Forums/Mailing Lists==<br />
There is a quite active forum, where development tips are shared and new designs are discussed.<br />
<br />
*[http://forums.reprap.org/ User Forums]<br />
<br />
==Blogs==<br />
There is a main blog for the project, the blog is primarily used as place to showcase new developments related directly to the RepRap, on top of that most active project participants have a personal blog, where they keep a journal of their activities. There is an ongoing attempt to try and consolidate the information from the personal blogs into the wiki. The blogs are a good place to go for information about some of the individuals development.<br />
<br />
Some blogs contains detailed research information into the various sub-components of the RepRap others detail the construction of RepRap machines. The quality of information, update rates, etc., like with any other blog, varies from blog to blog. Most contains very good and solid information, and are definitely worth exploring.<br />
<br />
*[http://blog.reprap.org/ Main Blog]<br />
*[http://builders.reprap.org/ Builder's Blog]<br />
*[http://www.google.com/reader/bundle/user%2F04483651751598287761%2Fbundle%2FRepRap%20RepStrap%20Aggregate%20Feed Aggregation of Blogs]<br />
<br />
= Overall composition of the RepRap =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Extruders|Category:Extruders]]'''<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one combined structure, which increases the weight of the printer head.<br />
<br />
===== Pinch wheel vs. Worm gear vs. direct drive =====<br />
The two most common methods of pushing the welding rod into the heater and out of the plastruder orifice are the ''pinch wheel'' mechanism and the ''worm gear'' mechanism.<br />
<br />
====== Pinch wheel ======<br />
[[image:PinchWheel.jpg|thumb|Image of a pinch wheel design]]<br />
In the pinch wheel design the axle of the motor either has indentation grooves or a small small gear which grips the plastic rod, the primary benefit of this design is its simplicity, at the cost of requiring the motor to turn slowly as well as the torque required to directly operate on the plastic rod.<br />
<br />
====== Worm gear ======<br />
[[image:worm_drive.jpg|thumb|Image of a worm gear design (from the [http://hydraraptor.blogspot.com/2009/10/worm-drive.html Hydraraptor] blog)]]<br />
The worm drive overcomes many of the issues with the pinch wheel design, due to the gearing the motor can turn at higher RPMs and less torque is required, the downside to this mechanism is that it requires more machined parts.<br />
<br />
====== Direct drive ======<br />
[[image:direct-drive.jpg|thumb|Image of a direct-drive design]]<br />
This type plastruder is starting go out of commission, due to the improved designs mentioned above. It is listed here more out of historical interests. It suffers from a number of draw backs, like complexity of the design, difficulties with starting and stopping the flow of plastic, causing printed objects to look like porcupines, with small pieces of leftover plastic protruding everywhere (A problem sometimes referred to as "incontinence"), further more it is difficult to mount the vertical drive screw to the axle of the large gear, causing frequent breakdowns.<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
This tool head is still under development, the goal is to make it possible for the RepRap to layout a section of wire, the current experiments are focused on copper wire, but the principle behind the SpoolHead should make it possible to layout other types of wires as well.<br />
<br />
Some of the potentials of this tool head is laying out wires for circuit boards, wiring of spools for motors, both linear and rotratry.<br />
<br />
See: [[SpoolHead]]<br />
<br />
===Milling Toolheads===<br />
<br />
Milling wood, PCBs(electronics) and metals.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:MillingToolheads|Category:MillingToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Pen-Holders===<br />
<br />
Drawing and painting with the carthersian bot.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:PenHolderToolheads|Category:PenHolderToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Others===<br />
<br />
laser-cutting, pick and place or adapters to mount the toolheads of [[RepMan]], [[Cupcake]] or other printers.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the [[Mendel]] and [[Darwin]] -generation, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system polar coordinate system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The [[Darwin]] (generation 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box.<br/><br />
Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: <br />
*a box like shape and<br />
*a threaded rod in each of the four corners.<br />
On the Darwin and it´s offsprings like the [[RepMan]] the tool head moves along the X and Y axes and the bed moves up and down along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The [[Mendel]] (generation 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. <br/><br />
The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using belt mechanisms.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet. There is even a kit-build printer called the Makerbot [[Cupcake]] ment to be just big enough to print Darwin or Mendel parts.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts]. The [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so this link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap. But most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions.<br/><br />
In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions. Unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine and then be scraped for other purposes (like becomming a CNC milling machine, where threaded rods perform better against vibration).<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help to make the RepStrapp move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation to the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made or pre-assembled kits, like the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BitsFromBytes] [[RapMan]]/[[RapMan|RapMan Pro]] or the [[Makerbot]] [[Cupcake]] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (generation 1). Although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel. The RepMan is even known to be more sturdy and reliable then the Mendel.<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pneumatics====<br />
Pneumatics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001mm precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=File:Direct-drive.jpg&diff=7728File:Direct-drive.jpg2010-03-13T11:31:14Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=File:Worm_drive.jpg&diff=7727File:Worm drive.jpg2010-03-13T11:12:30Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=File:PinchWheel.jpg&diff=7726File:PinchWheel.jpg2010-03-13T10:50:35Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7725RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T10:42:17Z<p>Anton: /* Classic */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
This section lists various places where the community stores various resources and links, like forums, blogs, printable objects.<br />
<br />
The most important part of the RepRap community are the <br />
[[:Category:RUG| RepRap User Groups]] (RUG). The RUGs are where RepRap (and RepRap-derivative) users get together to share parts and to build new RepRaps. You may have a RUG [http://dev.forums.reprap.org/index.php?19 near you] <br />
<br />
==Objects==<br />
The object libraries contains design databases of objects, published and designed, usually there are no restrictions on the use these designs, meaning no strings attached, no royalties etc. You should check the license of each individual object, some are completely free, others require at if you modify the design, you make the design publicly available, yet others restrict their use to non commercial use.<br />
{|border="1"<br />
|[http://www.thingiverse.com/ Thingiverse]<br />
| By far the largest collection, not all the objects can be created using reprap, some require a laser cutter or other esoteric machines, but most are printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Available_Files RepRep object library]<br />
|This library is part of the reprap project, and contains objects printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://theproductbay.org/ The Product Bay]<br />
|This site was announced in January 2010, but so far there appears to be no activity. The concept behind it seems to be inspired by The Pirate Bays use of bittorrent as method of sharing object designs.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Wiki==<br />
The following pages contains descriptions of modifications and changes which can be done to a RepRap. They contain links to pages with designs for: completely different machines, alternative tool heads, various objects which makes using a RepRap easier. The projects are in various states, some are 100% complete others are still under ongoing development. This is the place to go, for inspiration on how to improve your RepRap.<br />
<br />
*[[:Category:All_Developments]]<br />
*[[Builders]]<br />
<br />
==Forums/Mailing Lists==<br />
There is a quite active forum, where development tips are shared and new designs are discussed.<br />
<br />
*[http://forums.reprap.org/ User Forums]<br />
<br />
==Blogs==<br />
There is a main blog for the project, the blog is primarily used as place to showcase new developments related directly to the RepRap, on top of that most active project participants have a personal blog, where they keep a journal of their activities. There is an ongoing attempt to try and consolidate the information from the personal blogs into the wiki. The blogs are a good place to go for information about some of the individuals development.<br />
<br />
Some blogs contains detailed research information into the various sub-components of the RepRap others detail the construction of RepRap machines. The quality of information, update rates, etc., like with any other blog, varies from blog to blog. Most contains very good and solid information, and are definitely worth exploring.<br />
<br />
*[http://blog.reprap.org/ Main Blog]<br />
*[http://builders.reprap.org/ Builder's Blog]<br />
*[http://www.google.com/reader/bundle/user%2F04483651751598287761%2Fbundle%2FRepRap%20RepStrap%20Aggregate%20Feed Aggregation of Blogs]<br />
<br />
= Overall composition of the RepRap =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Extruders|Category:Extruders]]'''<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one combined structure, which increases the weight of the printer head.<br />
<br />
=====Pinch wheel vs. Worm Gear=====<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
This tool head is still under development, the goal is to make it possible for the RepRap to layout a section of wire, the current experiments are focused on copper wire, but the principle behind the SpoolHead should make it possible to layout other types of wires as well.<br />
<br />
Some of the potentials of this tool head is laying out wires for circuit boards, wiring of spools for motors, both linear and rotratry.<br />
<br />
See: [[SpoolHead]]<br />
<br />
===Milling Toolheads===<br />
<br />
Milling wood, PCBs(electronics) and metals.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:MillingToolheads|Category:MillingToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Pen-Holders===<br />
<br />
Drawing and painting with the carthersian bot.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:PenHolderToolheads|Category:PenHolderToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Others===<br />
<br />
laser-cutting, pick and place or adapters to mount the toolheads of [[RepMan]], [[Cupcake]] or other printers.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the [[Mendel]] and [[Darwin]] -generation, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system polar coordinate system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The [[Darwin]] (generation 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box.<br/><br />
Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: <br />
*a box like shape and<br />
*a threaded rod in each of the four corners.<br />
On the Darwin and it´s offsprings like the [[RepMan]] the tool head moves along the X and Y axes and the bed moves up and down along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The [[Mendel]] (generation 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. <br/><br />
The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using belt mechanisms.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet. There is even a kit-build printer called the Makerbot [[Cupcake]] ment to be just big enough to print Darwin or Mendel parts.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts]. The [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so this link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap. But most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions.<br/><br />
In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions. Unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine and then be scraped for other purposes (like becomming a CNC milling machine, where threaded rods perform better against vibration).<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help to make the RepStrapp move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation to the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made or pre-assembled kits, like the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BitsFromBytes] [[RapMan]]/[[RapMan|RapMan Pro]] or the [[Makerbot]] [[Cupcake]] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (generation 1). Although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel. The RepMan is even known to be more sturdy and reliable then the Mendel.<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pneumatics====<br />
Pneumatics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001mm precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7724RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T10:39:01Z<p>Anton: /* Overall structure */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
This section lists various places where the community stores various resources and links, like forums, blogs, printable objects.<br />
<br />
The most important part of the RepRap community are the <br />
[[:Category:RUG| RepRap User Groups]] (RUG). The RUGs are where RepRap (and RepRap-derivative) users get together to share parts and to build new RepRaps. You may have a RUG [http://dev.forums.reprap.org/index.php?19 near you] <br />
<br />
==Objects==<br />
The object libraries contains design databases of objects, published and designed, usually there are no restrictions on the use these designs, meaning no strings attached, no royalties etc. You should check the license of each individual object, some are completely free, others require at if you modify the design, you make the design publicly available, yet others restrict their use to non commercial use.<br />
{|border="1"<br />
|[http://www.thingiverse.com/ Thingiverse]<br />
| By far the largest collection, not all the objects can be created using reprap, some require a laser cutter or other esoteric machines, but most are printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Available_Files RepRep object library]<br />
|This library is part of the reprap project, and contains objects printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://theproductbay.org/ The Product Bay]<br />
|This site was announced in January 2010, but so far there appears to be no activity. The concept behind it seems to be inspired by The Pirate Bays use of bittorrent as method of sharing object designs.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Wiki==<br />
The following pages contains descriptions of modifications and changes which can be done to a RepRap. They contain links to pages with designs for: completely different machines, alternative tool heads, various objects which makes using a RepRap easier. The projects are in various states, some are 100% complete others are still under ongoing development. This is the place to go, for inspiration on how to improve your RepRap.<br />
<br />
*[[:Category:All_Developments]]<br />
*[[Builders]]<br />
<br />
==Forums/Mailing Lists==<br />
There is a quite active forum, where development tips are shared and new designs are discussed.<br />
<br />
*[http://forums.reprap.org/ User Forums]<br />
<br />
==Blogs==<br />
There is a main blog for the project, the blog is primarily used as place to showcase new developments related directly to the RepRap, on top of that most active project participants have a personal blog, where they keep a journal of their activities. There is an ongoing attempt to try and consolidate the information from the personal blogs into the wiki. The blogs are a good place to go for information about some of the individuals development.<br />
<br />
Some blogs contains detailed research information into the various sub-components of the RepRap others detail the construction of RepRap machines. The quality of information, update rates, etc., like with any other blog, varies from blog to blog. Most contains very good and solid information, and are definitely worth exploring.<br />
<br />
*[http://blog.reprap.org/ Main Blog]<br />
*[http://builders.reprap.org/ Builder's Blog]<br />
*[http://www.google.com/reader/bundle/user%2F04483651751598287761%2Fbundle%2FRepRap%20RepStrap%20Aggregate%20Feed Aggregation of Blogs]<br />
<br />
= Overall composition of the RepRap =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Extruders|Category:Extruders]]'''<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. <br />
<br />
=====Pinch wheel vs. Worm Gear=====<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
This tool head is still under development, the goal is to make it possible for the RepRap to layout a section of wire, the current experiments are focused on copper wire, but the principle behind the SpoolHead should make it possible to layout other types of wires as well.<br />
<br />
Some of the potentials of this tool head is laying out wires for circuit boards, wiring of spools for motors, both linear and rotratry.<br />
<br />
See: [[SpoolHead]]<br />
<br />
===Milling Toolheads===<br />
<br />
Milling wood, PCBs(electronics) and metals.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:MillingToolheads|Category:MillingToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Pen-Holders===<br />
<br />
Drawing and painting with the carthersian bot.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:PenHolderToolheads|Category:PenHolderToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Others===<br />
<br />
laser-cutting, pick and place or adapters to mount the toolheads of [[RepMan]], [[Cupcake]] or other printers.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the [[Mendel]] and [[Darwin]] -generation, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system polar coordinate system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The [[Darwin]] (generation 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box.<br/><br />
Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: <br />
*a box like shape and<br />
*a threaded rod in each of the four corners.<br />
On the Darwin and it´s offsprings like the [[RepMan]] the tool head moves along the X and Y axes and the bed moves up and down along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The [[Mendel]] (generation 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. <br/><br />
The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using belt mechanisms.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet. There is even a kit-build printer called the Makerbot [[Cupcake]] ment to be just big enough to print Darwin or Mendel parts.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts]. The [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so this link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap. But most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions.<br/><br />
In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions. Unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine and then be scraped for other purposes (like becomming a CNC milling machine, where threaded rods perform better against vibration).<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help to make the RepStrapp move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation to the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made or pre-assembled kits, like the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BitsFromBytes] [[RapMan]]/[[RapMan|RapMan Pro]] or the [[Makerbot]] [[Cupcake]] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (generation 1). Although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel. The RepMan is even known to be more sturdy and reliable then the Mendel.<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pneumatics====<br />
Pneumatics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001mm precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7723RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T10:34:22Z<p>Anton: /* Blogs */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
This section lists various places where the community stores various resources and links, like forums, blogs, printable objects.<br />
<br />
The most important part of the RepRap community are the <br />
[[:Category:RUG| RepRap User Groups]] (RUG). The RUGs are where RepRap (and RepRap-derivative) users get together to share parts and to build new RepRaps. You may have a RUG [http://dev.forums.reprap.org/index.php?19 near you] <br />
<br />
==Objects==<br />
The object libraries contains design databases of objects, published and designed, usually there are no restrictions on the use these designs, meaning no strings attached, no royalties etc. You should check the license of each individual object, some are completely free, others require at if you modify the design, you make the design publicly available, yet others restrict their use to non commercial use.<br />
{|border="1"<br />
|[http://www.thingiverse.com/ Thingiverse]<br />
| By far the largest collection, not all the objects can be created using reprap, some require a laser cutter or other esoteric machines, but most are printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Available_Files RepRep object library]<br />
|This library is part of the reprap project, and contains objects printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://theproductbay.org/ The Product Bay]<br />
|This site was announced in January 2010, but so far there appears to be no activity. The concept behind it seems to be inspired by The Pirate Bays use of bittorrent as method of sharing object designs.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Wiki==<br />
The following pages contains descriptions of modifications and changes which can be done to a RepRap. They contain links to pages with designs for: completely different machines, alternative tool heads, various objects which makes using a RepRap easier. The projects are in various states, some are 100% complete others are still under ongoing development. This is the place to go, for inspiration on how to improve your RepRap.<br />
<br />
*[[:Category:All_Developments]]<br />
*[[Builders]]<br />
<br />
==Forums/Mailing Lists==<br />
There is a quite active forum, where development tips are shared and new designs are discussed.<br />
<br />
*[http://forums.reprap.org/ User Forums]<br />
<br />
==Blogs==<br />
There is a main blog for the project, the blog is primarily used as place to showcase new developments related directly to the RepRap, on top of that most active project participants have a personal blog, where they keep a journal of their activities. There is an ongoing attempt to try and consolidate the information from the personal blogs into the wiki. The blogs are a good place to go for information about some of the individuals development.<br />
<br />
Some blogs contains detailed research information into the various sub-components of the RepRap others detail the construction of RepRap machines. The quality of information, update rates, etc., like with any other blog, varies from blog to blog. Most contains very good and solid information, and are definitely worth exploring.<br />
<br />
*[http://blog.reprap.org/ Main Blog]<br />
*[http://builders.reprap.org/ Builder's Blog]<br />
*[http://www.google.com/reader/bundle/user%2F04483651751598287761%2Fbundle%2FRepRap%20RepStrap%20Aggregate%20Feed Aggregation of Blogs]<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Extruders|Category:Extruders]]'''<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. <br />
<br />
=====Pinch wheel vs. Worm Gear=====<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
This tool head is still under development, the goal is to make it possible for the RepRap to layout a section of wire, the current experiments are focused on copper wire, but the principle behind the SpoolHead should make it possible to layout other types of wires as well.<br />
<br />
Some of the potentials of this tool head is laying out wires for circuit boards, wiring of spools for motors, both linear and rotratry.<br />
<br />
See: [[SpoolHead]]<br />
<br />
===Milling Toolheads===<br />
<br />
Milling wood, PCBs(electronics) and metals.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:MillingToolheads|Category:MillingToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Pen-Holders===<br />
<br />
Drawing and painting with the carthersian bot.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:PenHolderToolheads|Category:PenHolderToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Others===<br />
<br />
laser-cutting, pick and place or adapters to mount the toolheads of [[RepMan]], [[Cupcake]] or other printers.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the [[Mendel]] and [[Darwin]] -generation, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system polar coordinate system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The [[Darwin]] (generation 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box.<br/><br />
Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: <br />
*a box like shape and<br />
*a threaded rod in each of the four corners.<br />
On the Darwin and it´s offsprings like the [[RepMan]] the tool head moves along the X and Y axes and the bed moves up and down along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The [[Mendel]] (generation 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. <br/><br />
The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using belt mechanisms.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet. There is even a kit-build printer called the Makerbot [[Cupcake]] ment to be just big enough to print Darwin or Mendel parts.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts]. The [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so this link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap. But most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions.<br/><br />
In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions. Unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine and then be scraped for other purposes (like becomming a CNC milling machine, where threaded rods perform better against vibration).<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help to make the RepStrapp move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation to the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made or pre-assembled kits, like the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BitsFromBytes] [[RapMan]]/[[RapMan|RapMan Pro]] or the [[Makerbot]] [[Cupcake]] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (generation 1). Although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel. The RepMan is even known to be more sturdy and reliable then the Mendel.<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pneumatics====<br />
Pneumatics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001mm precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7722RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T10:33:20Z<p>Anton: /* Forums/Mailing Lists */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
This section lists various places where the community stores various resources and links, like forums, blogs, printable objects.<br />
<br />
The most important part of the RepRap community are the <br />
[[:Category:RUG| RepRap User Groups]] (RUG). The RUGs are where RepRap (and RepRap-derivative) users get together to share parts and to build new RepRaps. You may have a RUG [http://dev.forums.reprap.org/index.php?19 near you] <br />
<br />
==Objects==<br />
The object libraries contains design databases of objects, published and designed, usually there are no restrictions on the use these designs, meaning no strings attached, no royalties etc. You should check the license of each individual object, some are completely free, others require at if you modify the design, you make the design publicly available, yet others restrict their use to non commercial use.<br />
{|border="1"<br />
|[http://www.thingiverse.com/ Thingiverse]<br />
| By far the largest collection, not all the objects can be created using reprap, some require a laser cutter or other esoteric machines, but most are printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Available_Files RepRep object library]<br />
|This library is part of the reprap project, and contains objects printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://theproductbay.org/ The Product Bay]<br />
|This site was announced in January 2010, but so far there appears to be no activity. The concept behind it seems to be inspired by The Pirate Bays use of bittorrent as method of sharing object designs.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Wiki==<br />
The following pages contains descriptions of modifications and changes which can be done to a RepRap. They contain links to pages with designs for: completely different machines, alternative tool heads, various objects which makes using a RepRap easier. The projects are in various states, some are 100% complete others are still under ongoing development. This is the place to go, for inspiration on how to improve your RepRap.<br />
<br />
*[[:Category:All_Developments]]<br />
*[[Builders]]<br />
<br />
==Forums/Mailing Lists==<br />
There is a quite active forum, where development tips are shared and new designs are discussed.<br />
<br />
*[http://forums.reprap.org/ User Forums]<br />
<br />
==Blogs==<br />
There is a main blog for the project, the blog is primarily used as place to showcase new developments related directly to the RepRap, on top of that most active project participants have a personal blog, where they keep a journal of their activities. There is an ongoing attempt to try and consolidate the information from the personal blogs into the wiki. The blogs are a good place to go for information about some of the development being performed by each individual.<br />
<br />
Some blogs contains detailed research information into the various sub-components of the RepRap others detail the construction of RepRap machines. The quality of information, update rates, etc., like with any other blog, varies from blog to blog. Most contains very good and solid information, and are definitely worth exploring.<br />
<br />
*[http://blog.reprap.org/ Main Blog]<br />
*[http://builders.reprap.org/ Builder's Blog]<br />
*[http://www.google.com/reader/bundle/user%2F04483651751598287761%2Fbundle%2FRepRap%20RepStrap%20Aggregate%20Feed Aggregation of Blogs]<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Extruders|Category:Extruders]]'''<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. <br />
<br />
=====Pinch wheel vs. Worm Gear=====<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
This tool head is still under development, the goal is to make it possible for the RepRap to layout a section of wire, the current experiments are focused on copper wire, but the principle behind the SpoolHead should make it possible to layout other types of wires as well.<br />
<br />
Some of the potentials of this tool head is laying out wires for circuit boards, wiring of spools for motors, both linear and rotratry.<br />
<br />
See: [[SpoolHead]]<br />
<br />
===Milling Toolheads===<br />
<br />
Milling wood, PCBs(electronics) and metals.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:MillingToolheads|Category:MillingToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Pen-Holders===<br />
<br />
Drawing and painting with the carthersian bot.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:PenHolderToolheads|Category:PenHolderToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Others===<br />
<br />
laser-cutting, pick and place or adapters to mount the toolheads of [[RepMan]], [[Cupcake]] or other printers.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the [[Mendel]] and [[Darwin]] -generation, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system polar coordinate system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The [[Darwin]] (generation 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box.<br/><br />
Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: <br />
*a box like shape and<br />
*a threaded rod in each of the four corners.<br />
On the Darwin and it´s offsprings like the [[RepMan]] the tool head moves along the X and Y axes and the bed moves up and down along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The [[Mendel]] (generation 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. <br/><br />
The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using belt mechanisms.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet. There is even a kit-build printer called the Makerbot [[Cupcake]] ment to be just big enough to print Darwin or Mendel parts.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts]. The [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so this link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap. But most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions.<br/><br />
In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions. Unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine and then be scraped for other purposes (like becomming a CNC milling machine, where threaded rods perform better against vibration).<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help to make the RepStrapp move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation to the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made or pre-assembled kits, like the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BitsFromBytes] [[RapMan]]/[[RapMan|RapMan Pro]] or the [[Makerbot]] [[Cupcake]] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (generation 1). Although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel. The RepMan is even known to be more sturdy and reliable then the Mendel.<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pneumatics====<br />
Pneumatics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001mm precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7706RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T09:15:08Z<p>Anton: /* SpoolHead */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
This section lists various places where the community stores various resources and links, like forums, blogs, printable objects.<br />
==Objects==<br />
The object libraries contains design databases of objects, published and designed, usually there are no restrictions on the use these designs, meaning no strings attached, no royalties etc. You should check the license of each individual object, some are completely free, others require at if you modify the design, you make the design publicly available, yet others restrict their use to non commercial use.<br />
{|border="1"<br />
|[http://www.thingiverse.com/ Thingiverse]<br />
| By far the largest collection, not all the objects can be created using reprap, some require a laser cutter or other esoteric machines, but most are printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Available_Files RepRep object library]<br />
|This library is part of the reprap project, and contains objects printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://theproductbay.org/ The Product Bay]<br />
|This site was announced in January 2010, but so far there appears to be no activity. The concept behind it seems to be inspired by The Pirate Bays use of bittorrent as method of sharing object designs.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Wiki==<br />
The following pages contains descriptions of modifications and changes which can be done to a RepRap. They contain links to pages with designs for: completely different machines, alternative tool heads, various objects which makes using a RepRap easier. The projects are in various states, some are 100% complete others are still under ongoing development. This is the place to go, for inspiration on how to improve your RepRap.<br />
<br />
*[[:Category:All_Developments]]<br />
*[[Builders]]<br />
<br />
==Forums/Mailing Lists==<br />
There is a quite active forum, where developments tips are shared and new designs are discussed.<br />
<br />
*[http://forums.reprap.org/ User Forums]<br />
<br />
==Blogs==<br />
There is a main blog for the project, the blog is primarily used as place to showcase new developments related directly to the RepRap, on top of that most active project participants have a personal blog, where they keep a journal of their activities. There is an ongoing attempt to try and consolidate the information from the personal blogs into the wiki. The blogs are a good place to go for information about some of the development being performed by each individual.<br />
<br />
Some blogs contains detailed research information into the various sub-components of the RepRap others detail the construction of RepRap machines. The quality of information, update rates, etc., like with any other blog, varies from blog to blog. Most contains very good and solid information, and are definitely worth exploring.<br />
<br />
*[http://blog.reprap.org/ Main Blog]<br />
*[http://builders.reprap.org/ Builder's Blog]<br />
*[http://www.google.com/reader/bundle/user%2F04483651751598287761%2Fbundle%2FRepRap%20RepStrap%20Aggregate%20Feed Aggregation of Blogs]<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Extruders|Category:Extruders]]'''<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. <br />
<br />
=====Pinch wheel vs. Worm Gear=====<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
This tool head is still under development, the goal is to make it possible for the RepRap to layout a section of wire, the current experiments are focused on copper wire, but the principle behind the SpoolHead should make it possible to layout other types of wires as well.<br />
<br />
Some of the potentials of this tool head is laying out wires for circuit boards, wiring of spools for motors, both linear and rotratry.<br />
<br />
See: [[SpoolHead]]<br />
<br />
===Milling Toolheads===<br />
<br />
Milling wood, PCBs(electronics) and metals.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:MillingToolheads|Category:MillingToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Pen-Holders===<br />
<br />
Drawing and painting with the carthersian bot.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:PenHolderToolheads|Category:PenHolderToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Others===<br />
<br />
laser-cutting, pick and place or adapters to mount the toolheads of [[RepMan]], [[Cupcake]] or other printers.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the [[Mendel]] and [[Darwin]] -generation, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system polar coordinate system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The [[Darwin]] (generation 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box.<br/><br />
Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: <br />
*a box like shape and<br />
*a threaded rod in each of the four corners.<br />
On the Darwin and it´s offsprings like the [[RepMan]] the tool head moves along the X and Y axes and the bed moves up and down along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The [[Mendel]] (generation 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. <br/><br />
The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using belt mechanisms.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet. There is even a kit-build printer called the Makerbot [[Cupcake]] ment to be just big enough to print Darwin or Mendel parts.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts]. The [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so this link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap. But most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions.<br/><br />
In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions. Unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine and then be scraped for other purposes (like becomming a CNC milling machine, where threaded rods perform better against vibration).<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help to make the RepStrapp move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation to the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made or pre-assembled kits, like the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BitsFromBytes] [[RapMan]]/[[RapMan|RapMan Pro]] or the [[Makerbot]] [[Cupcake]] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (generation 1). Although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel. The RepMan is even known to be more sturdy and reliable then the Mendel.<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pneumatics====<br />
Pneumatics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001mm precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7705RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T09:14:40Z<p>Anton: Added a little introductury text</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
This section lists various places where the community stores various resources and links, like forums, blogs, printable objects.<br />
==Objects==<br />
The object libraries contains design databases of objects, published and designed, usually there are no restrictions on the use these designs, meaning no strings attached, no royalties etc. You should check the license of each individual object, some are completely free, others require at if you modify the design, you make the design publicly available, yet others restrict their use to non commercial use.<br />
{|border="1"<br />
|[http://www.thingiverse.com/ Thingiverse]<br />
| By far the largest collection, not all the objects can be created using reprap, some require a laser cutter or other esoteric machines, but most are printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Available_Files RepRep object library]<br />
|This library is part of the reprap project, and contains objects printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://theproductbay.org/ The Product Bay]<br />
|This site was announced in January 2010, but so far there appears to be no activity. The concept behind it seems to be inspired by The Pirate Bays use of bittorrent as method of sharing object designs.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Wiki==<br />
The following pages contains descriptions of modifications and changes which can be done to a RepRap. They contain links to pages with designs for: completely different machines, alternative tool heads, various objects which makes using a RepRap easier. The projects are in various states, some are 100% complete others are still under ongoing development. This is the place to go, for inspiration on how to improve your RepRap.<br />
<br />
*[[:Category:All_Developments]]<br />
*[[Builders]]<br />
<br />
==Forums/Mailing Lists==<br />
There is a quite active forum, where developments tips are shared and new designs are discussed.<br />
<br />
*[http://forums.reprap.org/ User Forums]<br />
<br />
==Blogs==<br />
There is a main blog for the project, the blog is primarily used as place to showcase new developments related directly to the RepRap, on top of that most active project participants have a personal blog, where they keep a journal of their activities. There is an ongoing attempt to try and consolidate the information from the personal blogs into the wiki. The blogs are a good place to go for information about some of the development being performed by each individual.<br />
<br />
Some blogs contains detailed research information into the various sub-components of the RepRap others detail the construction of RepRap machines. The quality of information, update rates, etc., like with any other blog, varies from blog to blog. Most contains very good and solid information, and are definitely worth exploring.<br />
<br />
*[http://blog.reprap.org/ Main Blog]<br />
*[http://builders.reprap.org/ Builder's Blog]<br />
*[http://www.google.com/reader/bundle/user%2F04483651751598287761%2Fbundle%2FRepRap%20RepStrap%20Aggregate%20Feed Aggregation of Blogs]<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Extruders|Category:Extruders]]'''<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. <br />
<br />
=====Pinch wheel vs. Worm Gear=====<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
This tool head is still under development, the goal is to make it possible for the RepRap to layout a section of wire, the current experiments are focused on copper wire, but the principle behind the SpoolHead should make it possible to layout other types of wires as well.<br />
<br />
Some of the potentials of this tool head is laying out wires for circuit boards, wiring of spools for motors, both linear and rotratry.<br />
See: [[SpoolHead]]<br />
<br />
===Milling Toolheads===<br />
<br />
Milling wood, PCBs(electronics) and metals.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:MillingToolheads|Category:MillingToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Pen-Holders===<br />
<br />
Drawing and painting with the carthersian bot.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:PenHolderToolheads|Category:PenHolderToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Others===<br />
<br />
laser-cutting, pick and place or adapters to mount the toolheads of [[RepMan]], [[Cupcake]] or other printers.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the [[Mendel]] and [[Darwin]] -generation, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system polar coordinate system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The [[Darwin]] (generation 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box.<br/><br />
Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: <br />
*a box like shape and<br />
*a threaded rod in each of the four corners.<br />
On the Darwin and it´s offsprings like the [[RepMan]] the tool head moves along the X and Y axes and the bed moves up and down along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The [[Mendel]] (generation 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. <br/><br />
The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using belt mechanisms.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet. There is even a kit-build printer called the Makerbot [[Cupcake]] ment to be just big enough to print Darwin or Mendel parts.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts]. The [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so this link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap. But most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions.<br/><br />
In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions. Unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine and then be scraped for other purposes (like becomming a CNC milling machine, where threaded rods perform better against vibration).<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help to make the RepStrapp move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation to the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made or pre-assembled kits, like the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BitsFromBytes] [[RapMan]]/[[RapMan|RapMan Pro]] or the [[Makerbot]] [[Cupcake]] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (generation 1). Although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel. The RepMan is even known to be more sturdy and reliable then the Mendel.<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pneumatics====<br />
Pneumatics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001mm precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7704RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T09:07:31Z<p>Anton: added a few comments about each individual link</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
This section lists various places where the community stores various resources and links, like forums, blogs, printable objects.<br />
==Objects==<br />
The object libraries contains design databases of objects, published and designed, usually there are no restrictions on the use these designs, meaning no strings attached, no royalties etc. You should check the license of each individual object, some are completely free, others require at if you modify the design, you make the design publicly available, yet others restrict their use to non commercial use.<br />
{|border="1"<br />
|[http://www.thingiverse.com/ Thingiverse]<br />
| By far the largest collection, not all the objects can be created using reprap, some require a laser cutter or other esoteric machines, but most are printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Available_Files RepRep object library]<br />
|This library is part of the reprap project, and contains objects printable by the RepRap<br />
|-<br />
|[http://theproductbay.org/ The Product Bay]<br />
|This site was announced in January 2010, but so far there appears to be no activity. The concept behind it seems to be inspired by The Pirate Bays use of bittorrent as method of sharing object designs.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Wiki==<br />
The following pages contains descriptions of modifications and changes which can be done to a RepRap. They contain links to pages with designs for: completely different machines, alternative tool heads, various objects which makes using a RepRap easier. The projects are in various states, some are 100% complete others are still under ongoing development. This is the place to go, for inspiration on how to improve your RepRap.<br />
<br />
*[[:Category:All_Developments]]<br />
*[[Builders]]<br />
<br />
==Forums/Mailing Lists==<br />
There is a quite active forum, where developments tips are shared and new designs are discussed.<br />
<br />
*[http://forums.reprap.org/ User Forums]<br />
<br />
==Blogs==<br />
There is a main blog for the project, the blog is primarily used as place to showcase new developments related directly to the RepRap, on top of that most active project participants have a personal blog, where they keep a journal of their activities. There is an ongoing attempt to try and consolidate the information from the personal blogs into the wiki. The blogs are a good place to go for information about some of the development being performed by each individual.<br />
<br />
Some blogs contains detailed research information into the various sub-components of the RepRap others detail the construction of RepRap machines. The quality of information, update rates, etc., like with any other blog, varies from blog to blog. Most contains very good and solid information, and are definitely worth exploring.<br />
<br />
*[http://blog.reprap.org/ Main Blog]<br />
*[http://builders.reprap.org/ Builder's Blog]<br />
*[http://www.google.com/reader/bundle/user%2F04483651751598287761%2Fbundle%2FRepRap%20RepStrap%20Aggregate%20Feed Aggregation of Blogs]<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]'''<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
'''See: [[:Category:Extruders|Category:Extruders]]'''<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. <br />
<br />
=====Pinch wheel vs. Worm Gear=====<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
See: [[SpoolHead]]<br />
<br />
===Milling Toolheads===<br />
<br />
Milling wood, PCBs(electronics) and metals.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:MillingToolheads|Category:MillingToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Pen-Holders===<br />
<br />
Drawing and painting with the carthersian bot.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:PenHolderToolheads|Category:PenHolderToolheads]]<br />
<br />
===Others===<br />
<br />
laser-cutting, pick and place or adapters to mount the toolheads of [[RepMan]], [[Cupcake]] or other printers.<br />
<br />
See: [[:Category:Toolheads|Category:Toolheads]]<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the [[Mendel]] and [[Darwin]] -generation, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system polar coordinate system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The [[Darwin]] (generation 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box.<br/><br />
Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: <br />
*a box like shape and<br />
*a threaded rod in each of the four corners.<br />
On the Darwin and it´s offsprings like the [[RepMan]] the tool head moves along the X and Y axes and the bed moves up and down along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The [[Mendel]] (generation 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. <br/><br />
The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using belt mechanisms.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet. There is even a kit-build printer called the Makerbot [[Cupcake]] ment to be just big enough to print Darwin or Mendel parts.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts]. The [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so this link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap. But most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions.<br/><br />
In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions. Unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine and then be scraped for other purposes (like becomming a CNC milling machine, where threaded rods perform better against vibration).<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help to make the RepStrapp move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation to the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made or pre-assembled kits, like the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BitsFromBytes] [[RapMan]]/[[RapMan|RapMan Pro]] or the [[Makerbot]] [[Cupcake]] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (generation 1). Although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel. The RepMan is even known to be more sturdy and reliable then the Mendel.<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pneumatics====<br />
Pneumatics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001mm precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Talk:RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7703Talk:RepRap project FAQ2010-03-13T08:56:04Z<p>Anton: New page: There were some links to the RapMan forum *[http://groups.google.com/group/makerbot Makerbot Operators] *[http://groups.google.com/group/makergear Makergear Group] Which I have removed, in...</p>
<hr />
<div>There were some links to the RapMan forum<br />
*[http://groups.google.com/group/makerbot Makerbot Operators]<br />
*[http://groups.google.com/group/makergear Makergear Group]<br />
Which I have removed, in the intent of trying to keep this page focused on the RepRap. <br />
<br />
The question is really, how much information from and about projects like RapMan, EMC, BfB etc. should we provide here?</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Talk:RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7702Talk:RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-13T08:18:58Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div>It would be useful if the numbers quoted in this page were pointed back to the reports from which they were drawn, preferably by links to the original documents. I'm an old Wikipedia editor and although your discussion of where you got your numbers and how you selected them is good, it is always preferable for readers to be able to access your source documents for themselves. [[User:Forrest Higgs|Forrest Higgs]] 19:31, 12 March 2010 (UTC)<br />
<br />
Done: [[User:Anton|Anton]] 08:18, 13 March 2010 (UTC)</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7701RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-13T08:09:03Z<p>Anton: Added links and references</p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower and materials, the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels immediately releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
'''There are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics'''. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "[http://www.google.dk/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&ved=0CAYQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americanchemistry.com%2Fs_plastics%2Fsec_pfpg.asp%3FCID%3D1439%26DID%3D5336&ei=UUKbS6HXO8mF_Ab7_NH7CQ&usg=AFQjCNHyqe0XOeoaKbiYOs_7fVkFv7FrMA&sig2=ElFvhKKrl24KBUGXdWyZfA CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS]" (pdf), note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "[http://www.google.dk/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&ved=0CAgQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.natureworksllc.com%2Four-values-and-views%2Flife-cycle-assessment%2F~%2Fmedia%2FOur%2520Values%2520and%2520Views%2FLifeCycleAssesment%2FBasic_LCA%2FNTR_CompleteLCA_1102%2520pdf.aspx&ei=v0WbS-DXN47__AbzyoD7CQ&usg=AFQjCNEq8eqVpNIq5uhu7JeoZVkbCGSx_A&sig2=vWNvwEkcSwlWAfWe1WHurQ Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production]", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, thus the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact readings difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" ''there is almost no sign of degradation in backyard composting''.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives and different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is returned to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.<br />
<br />
= References =<br />
[http://www.google.dk/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&ved=0CAYQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americanchemistry.com%2Fs_plastics%2Fsec_pfpg.asp%3FCID%3D1439%26DID%3D5336&ei=UUKbS6HXO8mF_Ab7_NH7CQ&usg=AFQjCNHyqe0XOeoaKbiYOs_7fVkFv7FrMA&sig2=ElFvhKKrl24KBUGXdWyZfA CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS]<br />
<br />
[http://www.google.dk/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&ved=0CAgQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.natureworksllc.com%2Four-values-and-views%2Flife-cycle-assessment%2F~%2Fmedia%2FOur%2520Values%2520and%2520Views%2FLifeCycleAssesment%2FBasic_LCA%2FNTR_CompleteLCA_1102%2520pdf.aspx&ei=v0WbS-DXN47__AbzyoD7CQ&usg=AFQjCNEq8eqVpNIq5uhu7JeoZVkbCGSx_A&sig2=vWNvwEkcSwlWAfWe1WHurQ Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production]<br />
<br />
[http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb3367/is_11_49/ai_n45100027/?tag=content;col1 Stability of ABS compounds subjected to repeated cycles of extrusion processing]</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7694RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T21:36:18Z<p>Anton: /* Plastics */</p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower and materials, the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels immediately releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
'''There are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics'''. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS", note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, thus the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact readings difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" ''there is almost no sign of degradation in backyard composting''.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives and different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is returned to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7668RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T18:13:49Z<p>Anton: /* Plastics */</p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower an materials the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels immediately releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
'''There are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics'''. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS", note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However since the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, thus the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact readings difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" ''there is almost no sign of degradation in backyard composting''.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives and different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is returned to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7667RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T18:12:35Z<p>Anton: /* Plastics */</p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower an materials the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels immediately releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
'''There are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics'''. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS", note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However since the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, thus the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact readings difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" ''there is almost no sign of degradation in backyard composting''.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives and different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is return to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7666RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T18:12:05Z<p>Anton: /* Plastics */</p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower an materials the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels immediately releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
'''There are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics'''. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS", note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However since the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, thus the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact readings difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" ''there is almost no sign of degradation in backyard composting''.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives, different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is return to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7665RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T18:11:14Z<p>Anton: /* Plastics */</p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower an materials the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels immediately releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
'''There are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics'''. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS", note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However since the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, thus the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact readings difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" there is almost no sign of dgradation in backyard composting.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives, different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is return to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7664RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T18:10:34Z<p>Anton: /* Plastics */</p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower an materials the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels immediately releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
'''There are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics'''. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS", note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However since the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, thus the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact reading difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" there is almost no sign of dgradation in backyard composting.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives, different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is return to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7663RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T18:08:49Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower an materials the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels immediately releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
'''There are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics'''. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS", note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However since the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact reading difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" there is almost no sign of dgradation in backyard composting.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives, different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is return to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7662RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T18:06:58Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower an materials the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels immediately releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
In short, there are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS", note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However since the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact reading difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" there is almost no sign of dgradation in backyard composting.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives, different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is return to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7661RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T17:54:23Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to provide information relevant to a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower an materials the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
In short, there are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.<br />
<br />
= Plastics =<br />
Most of these numbers originate from the ACC's LCA, in the report called: "CRADLE-TO-GATE LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY OF NINE PLASTIC RESINS AND TWO POLYURETHANE PRECURSORS", note this report only takes the plastics to the gate of producer of the plastic granulate, and does not describe the full cradle to grave of the plastics.<br />
<br />
The numbers for PLA is taken from: "Applications of life cycle assessment to NatureWorksTM polylactide (PLA) production", and take a similar approach, i.e. it takes PLA only to the gate, since PLA is produced from plant starches, it stores CO2. However since the report only takes the PLA to the gate of the factory and does not consider the End of Life situation, the CO2 values for PLA are horribly skewed. On top of that are problems related to Cargill Inc. not releasing actual numbers only graphs, making exact reading difficult.<br />
<br />
To further compound matters, PLA releases nitrates and phosphates into the waterways during composting, and according to: "Degradation of Biologically Degradable packaging items in Home or Backyard Composting Systems, Schriftenreihe des Lehrstuhls Abfallwirtschaft und des Lehrstuhls Siedlungswasserwirtschaft Nr. 11" there is almost no sign of dgradation in backyard composting.<br />
<br />
To even further make matters difficult, the LCAs for the subtypes of ABS, HDPE, PET and PLA vary, depending on additives, different processing methods.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
!<br />
!ABS<br />
!HDPE<br />
!PET<br />
!PLA<br />
|-<br />
|Energy (GJ)<br />
|-<br />
|**Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|align="right"|32.7<br />
|align="right"|13.1<br />
|align="right"|29.7<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Transport<br />
|align="right"|2.41<br />
|align="right"|1.26<br />
|align="right"|1.54<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Feedstock<br />
|align="right"|58.2<br />
|align="right"|54.6<br />
|align="right"|37.9<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''93.3'''<br />
|align="right"|'''68.9'''<br />
|align="right"|'''69.1'''<br />
|align="right"|'''54.1'''<br />
|-<br />
|CO2<br />
|-<br />
|** Fuel-related CO2<br />
|align="right"|2,684<br />
|align="right"|1,163<br />
|align="right"|2,147<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|** Process CO2<br />
|align="right"|465<br />
|align="right"|315<br />
|align="right"|390<br />
|align="right"|?<br />
|-<br />
|* '''Total'''<br />
|align="right"|'''3,149'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,478'''<br />
|align="right"|'''2,538'''<br />
|align="right"|'''1,900'''<br />
|}<br />
<br />
When the PLA is broken down it should be expected that approx 2.8Kg CO2 per 1Kg of PLA is return to the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The definitions of the various types of energy can be found here. The actual fuel - and even consumed the GJ - varies, depending on what materials are used to produce electrical power, mode of transportation, etc. The energy expenditure is per metric tonnes plastic<br />
<br />
{|<br />
|Energy Content of Delivered Fuel<br />
|The energy that is received by the final operator who consumes energy<br />
|-<br />
|Transport Energy<br />
|The energy associated with fuels consumed directly by the transport operations as well as any energy associated with the production of non-fuel bearing materials, such as steel, that are taken into the transport process<br />
|-<br />
|Feedstock Energy<br />
|The energy of the fule bearing materials that aare taken into the system but used as materials rather than fuels<br />
|}<br />
<br />
The various Green House Gases (Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, and the rest defined as GHG are converted into their equivalent CO2 values, based on their different impact), all values given are kg of CO2 per metric tonne of plastic<br />
<br />
In conclusion, if any kind of conclusion is possible with this mess of data, it must be said that, without specific knowledge about the subtype of plastic being used, the means of waste disposal in the local neighborhood, the structure of the power grids in both the country of the granulate producer as well as the region where the plastic is consumed, one component appears to be as good as any other. On top of that should be added hard to quantify things like land use for production of starch, material reuse, etc.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_Life_Cycle_Assessment&diff=7659RepRap Life Cycle Assessment2010-03-12T15:02:09Z<p>Anton: Intial creation, and introduction</p>
<hr />
<div>Based on a debate started in the forums, this page attempts to perform a Life Cycle Assement of the RepRap. Due to limitations of manpower an materials the assesment is based on extrapolating information from other sources. E.g. the American Chemistry Council, The Australian Governments "Review of the Environmental Impact of Wood Compared with Alternative Producs Used in the Production of Furniture" and similar reports.<br />
<br />
Only a few hours of searching on the Internet will make it patently obvious that the various LCAs published by various organizations, does show vested interests by most publishing agencies. Some have blatant oversights, e.g. that dumping a substance in a landfill constitutes End of Life, completely ignoring mechanical, biological and chemical decomposition. Furthermore the actual numbers presented in the published LCAs vary hugely, more than what I believe can reasonably be explained by regional differences.<br />
<br />
I have tried to take a conservative approach, e.g. trusting the numbers published by organizations like the American Chemistry Council, even though they do appear to have an interest in demonstrating that plastics have a very low impact, the numbers presented by ACC are lower than the comparable numbers by the European counterpart, but the conservative approach dictates that I choose the ACC numbers. I have filtered out some information, which I suspect of being falsified, e.g. a plastic pallet company, which has numbers in excess of 5 times better than the ACC's numbers.<br />
<br />
To make matters even worse, PLA and Wood initially performs a storage of CO2 which is then released at the End of Life, whereas expenditure of fossil fuels releases CO2 into the atmosphere. Accounting for this temporary storage of CO2 in an attempt to make CO2 levels of fossil fuels and materials like PLA and Wood appears to somewhat of an "art form", where different reports use different formulas and even where they use the same formulas, certain constants are tweaked, depending on expected lifetime, and other reasonings which appears rather opaque to me. In short, I get the impression that when comparing Wood and similar CO2 storing materials with fossil fuel, you can get almost any result you desire.<br />
<br />
In short, there are lies, damn lies and then there is statistics. So any numbers taken from this page is certain to be incorrect; they are based on the intention of being objective, but I have no doubt that anybody can produce any results they may wish.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7636RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T19:36:53Z<p>Anton: /* RepRap machines */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
=Community=<br />
<br />
==Objects==<br />
[http://www.thingiverse.com/]<br />
==Wiki==<br />
[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Builders]<br />
[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Category:All_Developments]<br />
[http://objects.reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php/Main_Page]<br />
<br />
==Forums==<br />
[http://forums.reprap.org/]<br />
==Blogs==<br />
[http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/WebHome]<br />
[http://blog.reprap.org/]<br />
[http://builders.reprap.org/]<br />
[http://pipes.yahoo.com/davidbuzz/reprap_aggregation_pipe]<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
<br />
==Tool Heads==<br />
The various tool heads are the heart of the RepRap Project. They are what distinguish the Reprap from other CNC machines. In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors influence the tool head capabilities. <br />
There are currently ?3? types(any milling heads?[dremel?]) of tool heads currently in use and development, with a number of varients. By far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder/"plastruder" for short.<br />
<br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
====Classification====<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. <br />
<br />
=====Classic=====<br />
The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. <br />
<br />
=====Pinch wheel vs. Worm Gear=====<br />
<br />
=====Bowden Cable=====<br />
The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
====Common Characteristics====<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Paste Extruder ===<br />
The paste extruder is largely experimental. There has been discussion of this tool head ultimately being used to print ceramic slip, plaster, and other materials for mold production purposes. Solder paste could potentially be used to print circuit boards.<br />
<br />
[balloon & bottle]<br />
[syringe direct]<br />
[syringe gear]<br />
[some other design]<br />
<br />
<br />
===SpoolHead===<br />
http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/SpoolHead<br />
<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
<br />
=== Cartesian Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== Polar Co-ordinate system ===<br />
<br />
In contrast: other machine designs rely on the polar coordinate system.<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_coordinate_system] Since most 3d printing software generates G&M code which assumes a cartesian coordinate system, an interpreter may be necessary to translate the cartesian positioning information in to polar coordinate instructions. Beaglefury and Galaxyman are two users on the forum currently working on the related math.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, currently either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: a box like shape, a threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion;(ball screws on the other hand) so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
<br />
<br />
===Sources of Motion===<br />
<br />
====Belt Driven====<br />
This is the current de facto motion technology in use on the Reprap. It is faster than leadscrews which is ideal in a 3d printer.<br />
====Screw Driven====<br />
Lead screws of various types have been used including:<br />
<br />
-all-thread<br />
<br />
-ACME<br />
<br />
-ballscrews<br />
<br />
-wood <br />
<br />
Lead screws offer mechanical advantage, however at the expense of speed.<br />
====Hydraulics====<br />
Hydraulics are powerful, fast, but expensive. Some work is being done on Hydraulics in the RepRap community. Their primary advantage is similar to the [Bowden Extruder] the ability to isolate the linear actuators(lightweight) from the pump.(heavy)<br />
====Pnuematics====<br />
Pnuematics suffer from inherent inaccuracies related to the compressible nature of gases. They are fast, powerful, but cannot easily achieve .001" precession without taking advantage of a pantograph mechanism of some sort.<br />
====Linear Motors====<br />
These are vary expensive. They could possibly be fabricated from accurately recessed pockets with cemented permanent magnets, however not much is being done on this front ATM.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7629RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:40:33Z<p>Anton: /* Thermoplastic Extruder */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: a box like shape, a threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extruders can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7628RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:40:07Z<p>Anton: /* Thermoplastic Extruder */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: a box like shape, a threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than the current 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extrudes can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7627RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:38:31Z<p>Anton: /* RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: a box like shape, a threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines does not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extrudes can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7626RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:37:39Z<p>Anton: /* RepStrap machines */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: a box like shape, a threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RPs needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move faster, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people end up investing so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines doesn't not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extrudes can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7625RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:34:52Z<p>Anton: /* RepStrap machines */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: a box like shape, a threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are frequently built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased over the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so a the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RP parts needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move better, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people have invested so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines doesn't not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extrudes can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7624RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:33:03Z<p>Anton: /* The Darwin (version 1) */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share: a box like shape, a threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased from the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so a the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RP parts needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move better, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people have invested so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines doesn't not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extrudes can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7623RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:31:54Z<p>Anton: /* RepRap machines */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machine designs, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share box like shape, and threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased from the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so a the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RP parts needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move better, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people have invested so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines doesn't not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extrudes can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7622RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:30:40Z<p>Anton: /* Co-ordinate system */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the '''Y''' direction, I had expected that direction to be X. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machines, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share box like shape, and threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased from the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so a the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RP parts needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move better, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people have invested so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines doesn't not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extrudes can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7621RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:29:37Z<p>Anton: /* Co-ordinate system */</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis. On the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the Y direction. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machines, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share box like shape, and threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased from the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so a the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RP parts needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move better, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people have invested so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines doesn't not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extrudes can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RepRap_project_FAQ&diff=7620RepRap project FAQ2010-03-11T15:05:22Z<p>Anton: intial save.</p>
<hr />
<div>It can be a bit daunting to get started working on and with the Reprap, this page is an attempt to provide an introduction to the general topics related to the project.<br />
= General introduction =<br />
Adrian Bowyer has provided a rather good introduction to the overall goal of the reprap project, which can be found on the [http://www.reprap.org main page] of the project. Reprap is a very interesting project because it contains a vast number of fields of expertise. software, electronics, firmware, mechanics, chemistry and a whole range of other fields of study.<br />
<br />
The RepRap is currently at version 2 of the printer, version 1 is called Darwin and version 2 is called Mendel.<br />
<br />
= Overall structure =<br />
== Mechanical 3D robot ==<br />
=== Co-ordinate system ===<br />
At first I was a bit confused about the labeling of the X, Y and Z axis, on the Mendel, when standing in front of the machine, you push the bed back and forth in the Y direction. That took me a bit by surprise, but upon a little reflection, it makes perfect sense. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cartesian_coordinate_system coordinate system] used by the RepRap is right handed, with the Y axis being the axis going from front to rear of the printer, the X axis going from left to right, and Z axis going vertically up and down.<br />
=== RepRap/RepStrap/McWire/HydraRaptor/WolfStrap/and friends===<br />
The machines used in the project can generally be divided into three groups, RepRappers, RepStrappers and commercially available forks.<br />
==== RepRap machines ====<br />
These are the officially released machines, either a Darwin or a Mendel, however due to the relatively high mutation rate, there are minor differences between individual machines of the same class.<br />
===== The Darwin (version 1) =====<br />
This is a box like machine, where the Z axis slides up and down using threaded rods in each of the four vertical corners of the box. Although variations exists, Darwin machines generally all share box like shape, and threaded rod in each of the four corners. On the Darwin the tool head moves along the X and Y axises and the bed moves along the Z axis.<br />
===== The Mendel (version 2) =====<br />
This machine features a more triangular shape when viewed from the side, the bed moves along the Z and Y axis, and the tool head moves along the X axis. The motion along the Z axis is controlled using two threaded rods, X and Y axis motion is performed using a belt mechanism.<br />
==== RepStrap machines ====<br />
Unfortunately it is still a little hard to purchase or get the plastic parts (RPs) needed to build a Mendel or a Darwin. Quite a few end up building a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bootstrap "bootstrap"] machine, known as a RepStrap in order to print their first RP parts. All of these machines are built from materials readily available in the local area, leftover scraps of wood and iron rod, with a few select items purchased from the Internet.<br />
<br />
The project website sponsors a few [http://www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/RepStrap standard layouts], the [http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/McWire_Cartesian_Bot_1_2 McWire] seems to be the most popular choice. (Yes the page suggests that you visit another page, because the 1.2 is no longer being actively developed, but the new page isn't really up to speed yet, so the link points to the old page) <br />
<br />
Almost all RepStrap machines look very different, on account of the very different materials people have on hand when building a RepStrap, but most share a common trend in that they use threaded rod for motion in all 3 dimensions. In order to build large object at a reasonable speed the machine needs to be able to move fast in the X and Y dimensions, unfortunately threaded rod is not ideal for rapid motion; so a the RepStrap machine should only be seen as a temporary thing, used only to help create the RP parts needed for building a real RepRap machine.<br />
<br />
Some even suggest that the threaded rod RepStrappers are so slow, that the first things created on a RepStrap should be things which can help make RepStrapper move better, like pulleys for belts, improved extruder heads etc.<br />
<br />
Some people have invested so much time and effort improving their original RepStrap machines, that they prefer their own creation rather than the Darwin/Mendel they originally set out to create.<br />
<br />
==== RapMan, BfB and other commercial offerings ====<br />
Since building a RepStrap machine takes time and requires a little mechanical and electrical skill (not much, but a little) some opt to purchase ready made kits, like the [http://www.rap-man.com/index.asp RapMan] or the [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com BfB] machines.<br />
<br />
Both commercial offerings appears to be forks off the Darwin (Version 1), although the machines doesn't not have the latest mechanical features available on the Mendel they are definitely capable of producing the RP parts needed to build a Mendel.<br />
== Print/Tool head ==<br />
In theory almost any tool can be placed on the 3D robot, although the structure of the 3D robot and the torque of the motors do place a certain limit on the tool head, by far the most popular tool head is the thermoplastic extruder, or just extruder for short. <br />
=== Thermoplastic Extruder ===<br />
Like most everything else, there are a bewildering number of different extruder designs (The mutation part of Adrian vision has definitely come true). Virtually all extruders work on a principle of pushing a 3mm rod of plastic through a heated 0.1-0.5mm wide orifice. Although there is work being done on an extruder which will use plastic granulate rather than 3mm welding rod (Granulates can be bought at a much lower price, compared to welding rod).<br />
<br />
The plastic rod extrudes can be divided into two different types based on where the motor pushing the plastic rod is placed. The classic extruder has the motor placed right next to the heating chamber, this arrangement makes it easy to design an extruder which can print stiff and brittle plastics, but requires that both the heater and the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod is built as one structure, which increases the weight of the printer head. The Bowden cable design separates the mechanism for pushing the plastic rod from the heater element using a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowden_cable bowden cable]. This reduces the overall weight which needs to be moved by the 3D robot, at the cost of not being able to print very stiff plastics and a need for slightly more powerful motor and/or gearing.<br />
<br />
All heaters use electrical resistive components in order to heat the melting chamber, either power resistors for [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichrome nichrome] wire which most people are familiar with in electrical hairdryers/blowers.<br />
<br />
The heating of the melting chamber is controlled using [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feedback_loop closed loop feedback], either [http://www.fourmilab.ch/hackdiet/www/subsection1_2_3_0_5.html PID or bang bang].<br />
== Electronics ==<br />
== Firmware ==<br />
== Software ==<br />
== Additional tools ==<br />
== Project organization ==</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Talk:Motor_FAQ&diff=7618Talk:Motor FAQ2010-03-11T13:01:37Z<p>Anton: Talk:MotorFAQ moved to Talk:Motor FAQ: the old title "MotorFAQ" prevented the page from showing up with a search for FAQ</p>
<hr />
<div>In the section:<br />
==Stepper drivers vs Stepper Controllers==<br />
It is claimed: "a very small stepper may be driven directly from the controller", wouldn't that apply solely to unidirectional stepper motors?, since a bi-directional requires a phase change.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
... with a "H-bridge"-setup and 4 transistors per coil (or 8 for a bipolar motor) you can switch the coils accordingly between Vdd and GND in either direction.<br />
<br />
But unipolar requires only one transistor per coil, so is much easier to build and control ...<br />
<br />
--[[User:VDX|VDX]]</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Talk:MotorFAQ&diff=7619Talk:MotorFAQ2010-03-11T13:01:37Z<p>Anton: Talk:MotorFAQ moved to Talk:Motor FAQ: the old title "MotorFAQ" prevented the page from showing up with a search for FAQ</p>
<hr />
<div>#REDIRECT [[Talk:Motor FAQ]]</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Motor_FAQ&diff=7616Motor FAQ2010-03-11T13:01:35Z<p>Anton: MotorFAQ moved to Motor FAQ: the old title "MotorFAQ" prevented the page from showing up with a search for FAQ</p>
<hr />
<div>=Introduction=<br />
<br />
This page tries to answer most of the frequently asked questions related to the choice and operation of drive motors used by the Reprap. <br />
<br />
<br />
==Stepper motors vs Servo Motors vs DC Gear Motors==<br />
I'll copy and paste a quote/excepts later.<br />
<br />
Electric motors all start with a simple concept. You apply an electric current to a coil, and it generates a magnetic field. That field causes the shaft attached to rotate. This is all an electric motor is. Through some engineering, variations on this have been created to allow some further control.<br />
<br />
'''DC motors'''<br />
DC (Brushed) motors= easiest to use, just connect straight to battery, only two wires. Hardest to control, you need an external feedback mechanism (optical or magnetic encoder, linear encoder, etc) and H bridge motor driver to get variable speed and direction.<br />
<br />
'''DC gear motors'''<br />
A DC gear motor is a DC motor which has an extension built on to it to "gear down" the rotation. Essentially, a series of gears to make the rotation of the motor move more slowly for particular uses. DC gear motors are normal DC motors which have been geared down to decrease their speed and increase their torque. The Solarbotics GM series are a popular type because of their low cost, but are constructed with plastic gears. Because these gears can only handle so much force, they include a torque limiting slip clutch to protect the plastic gears. If this clutch is disabled, the gears may break.<br />
<br />
'''Servo Motors'''<br />
(Hobby) Servo Motors are DC motors coupled with internal gearing and some control electronics that allow you to move the motor to a precise position. Servos function using information produced by a computer or a microcontroller called Pulse-width-modulation. By sending a certain repeating signal to the Servo, it will move to that certain point. In terms of a reprap, a servo would need to either be modified or purchased as a "full rotation servo". In a reprap, servos require closed loop feedback system and usually involve an optical or magnetic rotary encoder. They generally will offer higher torque than comparable steppers. Servo motors use three wires, Ground, Power, and PWM.<br />
<br />
'''Stepper Motors'''<br />
A stepper motor is another kind of special motor. This motor is powered and sent a signal to move forward x number of "steps". The current RepRap printer uses a common NEMA 17 stepper motor, which usually has 108 steps in it. These are operated in an "open loop". Stepper motors have 4 to 8 wires, and require a more complicated with two or four phases.<br />
<br />
==Stepper Motors==<br />
There is a good [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stepper_motor article on wikipedia] explaining the technology behind stepper motors. The physical size of stepper motors are usually described via a US based standard called Nema, which describes the bolt-up pattern and shaft diameter, the reprap site has an [[NEMA_Motor|article explaining the standard]].In addition to the Nema size rating, stepper motors also also rated by the depth of the motor in mm, the longer the motor typically the more powerful. Stepper motors also have a step size rating, of 1.8 degrees per full step, 4 steps within each cycle. The step size, divided into 360 degrees gives the number of steps per revolution. Some stepper motor controllers generate 'microsteps' by generating a sine cosine waveform for the stepper coils. The microsteps become less accurate then the full size steps, but allow finer control and smother operation. Also check the motor torque and the current draw to compare stepper motor strengths.<br />
<br />
<br />
The [[Mendel_Stepping_Motors|pages related to building a Mendel]] has a list of suppliers of stepping motors.<br />
<br />
The power of a motor is usually proportional to the physical size of the motor, The Darwin version of Reprap primarily used NEMA 24 motors, whereas the Mendel version is designed to use either NEMA 14 or NEMA 17 motors. The more commonly used size is NEMA 17 as it is easier to find NEMA 17 motors with sufficient torque compared to NEMA 14.<br />
<br />
==Torque==<br />
<br />
The Mendel officially requires 0.137Nm torque (1400 g-cm or 1.215 lb-in) for the X, Y and Z axis. Recent designs for extruders almost exclusively require stepper motors as well, but no requirements for torque has been given in those designs.<br />
<br />
Stepper motor's do not offer as much torque or holding force as comparable DC Servo motors or DC Gear motors. Their advantage over these motors is one of positional control. Whereas: DC motors require a closed loop feedback mechanism, as well as support circuitry to drive them, a stepper motor has positional control by it's nature of rotation via fractional increments.<br />
<br />
==Power and current==<br />
<br />
All stepper motors will have a certain specifications for voltage and current, typically 2.8V and 1.68A, as long as the stepper driver/controller does current control you can use any supply voltage greater than the motor's rated voltage. In fact, a large difference is advantageous to the top speed of the motor. If the motor dirver/controller does not do current control, you must use a supply voltage fairly close to the motor voltage (no more than 2x the voltage specified by the manufacturer) or the motor will overheat and burn out its winding insulation or demagnetize its rotor.<br />
<br />
The 2.3 version of the Reprap axis controllers do have current control.<br />
<br />
==Stepper drivers vs Stepper Controllers==<br />
<br />
To run a stepper motor, two things are normally required: a controller to create step and direction signals(at +-5V normally) and driver circuit which can generate the necessary current/amperage to drive the motor. In some cases: a very small stepper may be driven directly from the controller, or the controller and driver circuits may be combined on to one board.<br />
<br />
==PWM and Stepper Drivers==<br />
From Wikipedia:[[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulse-width_modulation|PWM]]:<br />
Pulse-width modulation (PWM) is a very efficient way of providing intermediate amounts of electrical power between fully on and fully off. A simple power switch with a typical power source provides full power only, when switched on. PWM is a comparatively recent technique, made practical by modern electronic power switches.<br />
<br />
Stepper Drivers normally work by chopping up a supply voltage using an embedded PWM chip. These chips do require minor support circuitry which is the primary thing you pay for when you buy a stepper driver. The PWM chips themselves usually have a unit price below $10USD depending mostly on their rated current. <br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
|+Some example chips include:<br />
|Chip<br />
|Verified<br />
|Max Amperage<br />
|Comments<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.google.com/search?q=L293D&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a L293D]<br />
|Yes<br />
|.6amp(s)<br />
| Multiples can be stacked on top of each other to divide up amperage. <br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=m4i&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&q=A3967&aq=f&aqi=g7&aql=&oq= A3967]]<br />
|No<br />
|.75amp(s)<br />
|Slightly underpowered, at only 750mA/Phase<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.google.com/search?q=A4983&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a A4983]]<br />
|Yes<br />
|2amp(s)<br />
|Can get very warm, active cooling is needed<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.google.com/search?q=+Allegro+3977+chip&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a Allegro 3977]]<br />
|No<br />
|2.5amp(s)<br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.google.com/search?q=TB6560&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a TB6560]]<br />
|No<br />
|2.5-3amp(s)<br />
|<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Stepper drivers==<br />
<br />
Sourcing stepper motor drivers can be a bit difficult, the 2.3 stepper drivers for the Reprap is very hard to purchase pre-assembled, sourcing the individual parts and assembling the controllers can be done with just a little bit of skill, for those without skills or materials to assemble the boards, generic stepper drivers purchased from the web. In Europe it will usually be more cost-effective to purchase pre-assembled boards compared to purchasing the individual parts and perform a DIY assembly.<br />
<br />
{| border="1"<br />
|+Alternative sources for stepper drivers<br />
|Manufacturer<br />
|Verified<br />
|Location<br />
|Max Amperage<br />
|Microstepping<br />
|Comments<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://dev.www.reprap.org/bin/view/Main/Stepper_Motor_Driver_2_3 RepRap Stepper Motor Driver 2.3]]<br />
|Yes<br />
|US<br />
|2amp(s)<br />
|Half<br />
|Listed for comparison.<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_info.php?products_id=9402 Sparkfun]]<br />
|Yes<br />
|US<br />
|.75amp(s)<br />
|1/8<br />
|Slightly underpowered compared to other drivers, at only 750mA/Phase. Has plenty sufficient power for Mendel. Recommended.<br />
|-'<br />
|[[http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/1202 Polulo]]<br />
|Yes<br />
|US<br />
|2amp(s)<br />
|1/16<br />
|Can get very warm, active fan cooling or passive small heatsink is needed above ~.5A. Recommended.<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.diycnc.co.uk/html/driver25.html DIY CNC]]<br />
|No<br />
|GB<br />
|2.5amp(s)<br />
|1/8<br />
|Can drive 1 stepper, discount when buying several.<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.adafruit.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=81 Arduino Motor Shield]]<br />
|No<br />
|US<br />
|.6amp(s)<br />
|?<br />
|Requires Arduino as controller. Can drive 2 servos, 4 DC, or 2 (bipolar or unipolar)steppers,<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=p3907.m38.l1313&_nkw=4+axis+TB6560&_sacat=See-All-Categories TB6560AHQ based]]<br />
|No<br />
|GB<br />
|2.5-3amp(s)<br />
|?<br />
|can drive 4 or 5 steppers depending on model<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.geckodrive.com/product.aspx?c=3&i=14469 Gecko Drive]<br />
|Yes<br />
|US<br />
|3.5amp(s)]<br />
|?<br />
|Can drive 4 steppers<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Micro stepping==<br />
Microstepping between the pole-positions is made with lower torque than with full-stepping, but has much lower tendency for mechanical oszillation around the step-positions and you can drive with much higer frequencies.<br />
<br />
If your motors are near to mechanical limitations and you have high friction or dynamics, you won't receive much more accuracy. When your motors are 'overpowered' and/or you don't have much friction, then you can transfer the higher positioning accuracy to moving accuracy too.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Electronics]]</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=MotorFAQ&diff=7617MotorFAQ2010-03-11T13:01:35Z<p>Anton: MotorFAQ moved to Motor FAQ: the old title "MotorFAQ" prevented the page from showing up with a search for FAQ</p>
<hr />
<div>#REDIRECT [[Motor FAQ]]</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=GSoC_2010&diff=7615GSoC 20102010-03-11T12:32:36Z<p>Anton: /* Software */</p>
<hr />
<div>The RepRap Team is considering the option of participating in Google Summer of Code (GSoC) 2010 as a means of increasing our development efforts.<br />
<br />
With the development and rapid evolution of Mendel software, firmware and electrical areas of the RepRap project may be being out paced by hardware development. Current hardware designs have their limitations as well and certainly in the area of tool heads there are many directions we could take. What do you think? Got an idea that you haven't had the time to get off the ground? Add it to the list!<br />
<br />
== Ideas ==<br />
=== Software ===<br />
* Implement a generic low-level C/C++ software driver that can serve as a tool for existing and future RepRap softwares. Requirements:<br />
** OS-independent standardized API - POSIX/Windows - multiple implementations may be required. API should be highly documented and finalized.<br />
** High stability - end product should be at a maximum as buggy as the best existing drivers - otherwise it will not replace existing per-application drivers<br />
** Multi-Firmware - firmware independence is essential to the longevity and usefulness of the proposed driver level<br />
* Multi-Use - Python back-end to allow ease of functional expansion; rather than re-write code to do something, make a plug-in<br />
* CAD/CAM tool set<br />
<br />
=== Firmware ===<br />
* "The Network is the RepRap" - develop a network compatible firmware upgrade for the existing RepRap motherboard as well as software driver and the relevant electronics.<br />
** Implement the RepRap as a CANBUS device so that it can interact with external automated devices.<br />
** Implement the RepRap as a ethernet enabled device so that it can cheaply network with consumer off the shelf routers and switches.<br />
** Implement open source versions of the libraries used in the RapMan electronics (v3 and v3.1) so that a complete firmware package can be distributed and innovated upon by the community. Additional challenges such as implementing an interactive serial over USB (or ethernet).<br />
<br />
=== Electronics ===<br />
* Work with Makerbot to finish the [[Generation_4_Electronics|RepRap Gen 4 Electronics]]<br />
* Make simplest electronics design for at least PCB be printed by reprap<br />
* Move towards easier to source and lower cost chips, instead of eclectic ones<br />
<br />
=== Hardware ===<br />
* Port the tool change system to Mendel and integrate it with existing print heads.<br />
* Work on making a printable drive/support system, using some form of a Sarrus linkage<br />
* [[Heated_Bed|Heated Bed]] - it's the most important add on to RepRap however everyone is still doing his own version. We need to develop a cheap, acessible and simple [[Heated_Bed|Heated Bed]].<br />
<br />
=== Documentation ===<br />
* Create an interactive guide that help someone to build a RepRap so that the entry level of building one is lower.<br />
<br />
== External Links ==<br />
* [http://code.google.com/soc/ Google Summer of Code]</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=WolfStrap&diff=7611WolfStrap2010-03-11T09:22:29Z<p>Anton: Removed a fragment of the orginal german text</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Development<br />
|name = WolfStrap<br />
|description = documenting a generic tool/artpiece<br />
|license = [[GPL]]<br />
|author = Stoffel15<br />
|reprap = ?<br />
|categories = [[:Category:RepStrap|RepStrap]]<br />
}}<br />
<br />
{{merge|WolfStrap-English}}<br />
<br />
=Working Notes=<br />
<span style="color:DarkMagenta"><br />
Text written in dark magenta has been added by the translator, in order clarify certain aspects of the translation, and is not part of the original German article<br />
</span><br />
<br />
=Files=<br />
Google Sketchup 7 File:<br />
[[Image:Reprap.skp]]<br />
=Discussion=<br />
http://dev.forums.reprap.org/read.php?1,37355<br />
<br />
It is difficult to source parts for the Mendel in Germany, so I was looking for a cheap and easy solution to create the parts for myself.<br />
<br />
On top of that it should be mentioned that I am by no means a professional woodworker... the important thing being that it worked.<br />
<br />
To me [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aesthetics Aesthetics] is a foreign word, which I have no knowledge about :) <br />
<br />
I didn't plan to publicize this, but I was asked to do so... <br />
<br />
Comments and suggestions can be made in the [http://dev.forums.reprap.org/read.php?35,37777 German forums].<br />
<br />
The pictures are from different construction and test phases.<br />
This is the end result:<br />
<br />
[[Image:Wolfstrap.jpg|left]] [[Image:Wolfstrap_Seite.jpg|200px|right]][[Image:Wolfstrap Hinten.jpg|200px|center]][[Image:extruder.jpg|200px|right]][[Image:Repstrap Oben.jpg|200px|center]][[Image:Wolfstrap-2.JPG|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
==Extruder==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:Behelfsextruder.jpg|left|200px]]Intially I created the extruder from a block of wood, but I gave up on that idea.<br />
Following that, I build this (image to the left) temporary extruder.<br />
The heater has been moved to the new extruder. It was mounted with two small wood screws on the aluminum angle at the base of the motor. The cable tie prevented the filament from sliding out.<br />
<br />
I used this to create the [http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1794 Wade's Geared Nema 17 Extruder ].[[Image:500px-GearedNema17.jpg|right|200px]]<br />
Because my construction was so difficult to control, I had to reduce the extruder speed way down in the firmware, unfortunately the stepper driver had problems driving the motor smoothly at that speed.<br />
<br />
The Wade-extruder works great.<br />
<br />
Even with a 0.28Nm Stepper.[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Development:Geared_Nema17_Extruder Wiki-Geared_Nema17_Extruder]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
These drawings are known from the Reprap-extruder-page. [[Image:Brass-barrel.jpg|left|200px]][[Image:Thermal-barrier.jpg|left|200px]]<br />
<br />
<br />
Originally I had planned to make the nozzle in the same manner. I discovered the drawing cannot work this way.<br />
<br />
Following a few trials, I performed the following changes:<br />
<br />
The drilling in the brass part, specified as 3.5mm, I used a 3mm drill. The drills are rarely very precise, so the hole usually ends up approximately 3.1-3.2mm in diameter. I made the the hole in the teflon part, the isolator, using a 2.8mm drill. On top of that, I shortened the part to only 25mm long, in order to keep the length of the hole shorter. Teflon is very slippery and is relatively soft. Once the fillament is in the hole, it slides quite easily despite the small diameter. The brass part is very hot, so the filament adapts to the shape. [[Image:Backflow.gif|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
What do I achieve by this?<br />
<br />
I had the problem that the fillament pushed upwards, out of the nozzle, and as soon as everything was cooled down, the nozzle stopped working. (Animation of a [http://spoolhead.blogspot.com/2010/02/extruders-pt-1-backflow-and-bench.html Spoolhead])<br />
<br />
This solved that issue.<br />
<br />
On top of that, I tighted the end with the brass threading with at hose clamp. This way the part is cooled from the outside and the brass nozzle remains in the teflon part even under pressure. Due to the head, the teflon turns soft, and initially the nozzles were pushed out.<br />
<br />
<br />
I glued this contraption onto the Wade-extruder using superglue, and it works.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
==Bill Of Materials==<br />
<span style="color:DarkMagenta"><br />
The dimensions given here are for lumber commonly available in Germany. The width and height matches the German building code for laths supporting a roof, the actual dimensions are not terribly important, and can be adopted to dimensions readily available in your area.<br />
</span><br />
<br />
Planed roof batten 18x45mm <span style="color:DarkMagenta">(Dimensions easily available in Germany, just use something of a similar size)</span><br />
<br />
2x 445mm long (drawer slides X-axis)<br />
<br />
2x 200mm long (drawer slides Z-axis)<br />
<br />
1x ca 300mm long (Attachment for the captive nut, Y-axis)<br />
<br />
2x ca 50mm long (Attachment for the captive nut, X-axis and Z-axis)<br />
<br />
<br />
Planed timber batten 18x70mm <span style="color:DarkMagenta">(Dimensions easily available in Germany, just use something of a similar size)</span><br />
<br />
2x 415mm long (Base frame)<br />
<br />
2x 450mm long (Base frame)<br />
<br />
2x 350mm long (Vertical frame, X-axis)<br />
<br />
1x 160mm long (Z-axis, extruder mount)<br />
<br />
1x 110mm long (Z-axis, motor mount)<br />
<br />
<br />
A wooden board 30x40x18mm (bed), in order to reduce the mass, a 5 mm plywood will be sufficient, thus the motor will expend less power.<br />
<br />
<br />
Everything is plain softwood. The cheap kind from the hardware store. (It is not intended to be long lasting)<br />
Be carefull to choose only straight boards and planks. Leave the warped behind. If you intend for the machine to last longer, better quality wood can be used and glued together as well as using screws.<br />
<br />
All dimensions are rough measurments, some adaptations will be required, so don't hold me accountable for the exact dimensions :-).<br />
<br />
<br />
Metal-drawer slides (Do not use plastic slides)<br />
<br />
2 pairs 250mm (approximately 10€ a pair)<br />
<br />
1 pair 450mm (approximately 12€)<br />
<br />
<br />
Chipboard screws (Spax)<span style="color:DarkMagenta">The most common German brandname is "Spax", but almost any kind of screw can be used</span>[[Image:Spax.jpg|right|100px]]<br />
<br />
4mmx25mm (a good hand full)<br />
<br />
3mmx15mm (a good hand full)<br />
<br />
4mmx35mm (a good hand full)<br />
<br />
Threaded rod 2x approximately 350mm M10; X-Y-axis (I started out with M5s, which I cannot recommend. The machine will move too slow)<br />
<br />
Threaded rod 1x M5 approximately 200mm; Z-axis<br />
<br />
And two matching nuts per axis.<br />
<br />
Oh yeah, a few pieces of aquarium tubing and 4 hose clamps coupling purposes.<br />
<br />
Various metal brackets (for the base frame)[[Image:Metallwinkel.jpg|right|100px]]]<br />
<br />
6x 100x100 mm corner braces<br />
<br />
4x 120x120 mm flat corner braces<br />
<br />
of course hot glue... very important ;-)<br />
<br />
----<br />
==Building instructions==<br />
<br />
Tools required: Try square, measuring tape, dremel, Electric screwdriver, drill bits for wood and a circular saw.<br />
<br />
It is best to begin with the body for the bed, all connections should be pre-drilled with the Dremel and a 2.5mm drill bit, so the woold does not crack<br />
<br />
<span style="color:DarkMagenta">Y Axis</span><br />
<br />
For this we need the 4 wood battens 18x70 (415, 450) mm. Right and left the two long parts. Use this make a rectangular frame and if possible try to stay as close to a right angle as possible. The try square be use full for this. Mount the two long drawer slides on on top of this frame. See to it that they are the parallel, otherwise there will be problems later on. Jetzt zieht man die beiden Schienen raus, so das man an die Löcher zum Verschrauben kommt, und legt das ganze umgekehrt auf die Holzplatte , die später die Arbeitsplatte werden soll, und schraubt die fest. Now pull out the two rails, in order to get at the fastening holes on the slides, and turn the frame over and place the slides on the wooden board which will later become the printing bed, fasten the bed tightly. Test whether it slides without resistance back and forth. Great. Great. Now we draw markings for the motor on the front, drill out the holes and mount the motor. This is a bit easier if we remove the board for printing bed again.<br />
<br />
Now it is time for the captive nut. We'll need the 300mm piece 18 x 45mm batten. We mount it lengthwise under the bed, and push the bed up against the axle of the motor, just hard enough to make a tiny indentation in the wood (This way you don't have to do any measuring). Drill a 12mm hole where the indentation was made, so the M10 rod can easily fit. Now everything is starting to shape up :-)<br />
<br />
Now you can mount the rod to the motor. This requires a piece of aquarium tubing (20-30mm) and push it over the axle of the motor, then tighten the hose to the axle using a hose clamp. Screw a nut on the rod, push the rod through the 12mm hole and add another nut to the other side of the board. Attach the aquarium hose from the motor axle to the rod and tighten the connection using hose clamp. Ensure that it doesn't wobble when the motor is running. The first axis is complete... applause.<br />
<br />
<span style="color:DarkMagenta">X Axis</span><br />
<br />
So now we need the two 18x70x350mm boards and the base frame with the Y-axis. The two boards are positioned in the rear third (approximately 100m from the rear) right and left from the frame. Take great care that the boards are at right angles to the frame and that both the height and distance from the rear is identical, they must be positioned "precisely" opposite each other. You'll need at least 4 screws per board. In order to stabilizing the vertical section we'll attach the crossbeams (18x45x445mm). The first should be flush with the upper edge, ensure that the two vertical boards remain parallel, while attaching the beam. The second should be placed at a distance of about 47-48mm, a 18x45mm board should be able to pass through with comfort, and try to keep the two beams as parallel as possible. It is starting to look quite nicely.<br />
<br />
Drill the holse for the motor on the left side. The middle of the motor axle should be 60mm below the top and flush with the board (The motor axls will then be approx 20mm towards the rear). The motor axle should be as far as possible towards the front, otherwise the fastening for the X axis captive nut will have to too long (and unstable).<br />
<br />
<br />
So until now, everything was quite easy...<br />
<br />
Now it is time for the Z axis. For this we need the 18x70x160mm board and the two 18x45x200mm boards. We place the smaller board, <span style="color:DarkMagenta">which will hold the extruder</span> in front of us and screw the drawer gliders with the small U onto it. As far as possble towards the outer edges, both should be flush with the short side. This is also the side where the detent of the slide drawer is. It is very VERY important to keep the slides parallel, otherwise the Z axis will jam. You must be able to put the motor between the slides, otherwise the motor will not fit later on. Now the two 200mm boards are attached. The outer distance must be 110mm and the edge of the extruder board, where the slides are flush, should also be flush with the two boards. Now everything can be raised up in the vertical, and both drawer slides point upwards (the detent position is downwards). Measure once again if the two boards change their relative distance when the extruder board is moved back and forth, if so, the drawer slides are not parallel. Everything fine? then move on.<br />
<br />
The Z axis is standing vertical in front of you, facing the two boards... take a drawer slide, put it sideways in front of you, the detent position towards the right. This is how it is attached, with the small U centered at the lower end of the boards. One small screw per board. Now let it rest on the extruder board, and attach the second drawer slide the same way, parallel, with at distance of approx 80mm above it. I placed a small guide between the two in order to get them parallel. Slide everything back and forth, it must not jam. So far so good.<br />
<br />
Now everything has to be mounted on the X axis. The best will be to screw both slides on one side first. Not too tight. Now we have to take care, that everything will be parallel to the bed. I used a small support for this. The left hand side first, placing something<span style="color:DarkMagenta">/anything</span> as support, since the precise height does not matter. Then I pushed it right, drew markings, and screwed on. Later on you will have to place something on top of the board, since the wood is never totally flat, this way minor mistakes can be corrected. I use the green plate for this.<br />
<br />
But... something is still missing... of course, the captive nuts.<br />
Now, having mounted the X-axis, it is possible to mark the position for the captive nut on the right board of the Z-axis. I cut a small block of leftover wood 18x45x70mm. The Z axis has to be removed... unfortunately. Only the board with the two drawer slides, the rest should remain attached. When the small block is attached, push it against the motor axle, in order to make a small indentation where the hole (12mm) will need to be drilled. Remove the small block, drill, now glue should be used when it is reattached (this is a weak point). You should be able to push the X-axis back and forth and the block should move between the two crossbeams. Does it? great.<br />
Now the threaded rod can be mounted in the same way as with the Y-axis. Don't forget the nuts, one nut on each side of the block.<br />
<br />
Now only one board should be leftover. 18x70x110mm where the Z motor will be mounted, in such a way that it is positioned in the middle. As you can see, you need to drill two additional holes besides the motor, otherwise the drawer slides will be om tje way. I use 20mm holes. You will have to measure the exact position. It depends on where you mounted your drawer slides. But you have made it sofar, so you will be able to handle that.<br />
<br />
I ran into some issues with the captive nut holder for the Z axis... I tried to do it once more with a small block of wood. Again a piece of the 18x45x25m which I then slotted. I glued two nuts into the slit and screwed the M5 threaded rod onto the nuts. If I had to do it again, I would have used a small angle bracket, the glued nuts in the slit won't hold for long.<br />
<br />
My suggestion would be to use a 50x20x15 angle bracket, drill a hole in the short plate for the threaded rod. Then use the same priciple as with the wooden blocks, place a nut on each side of the holes. This is where your ideas will be needed, I cannot chew all you food :-P<br />
<br />
If you've come this far: Congratulations, you have held out quite long. Now you are probably asking yourselves, what is the purpose of using two nuts for the blocks... if I tightened both too much, the axle would jam. This way I have neutralized the backlash. First glue one nut with hot glue to the block of wood...now the threaded rod will move the block. If you turn the motor slowly back and forth you'll notice that the movement is delayed, this is the backlash. Because of this tighten the second nut carefully, just so that the rod can still turn and then glue the nut. If I ignored the backlash, it would later be visible in the printed parts, holes will be ovals, corners wouldn't be corners, etc.[[Image:Mitnehmer x-y.jpg |right| 200px ]]<br />
<br />
So, I hope it wasn't too complicated.. if there is anything you haven't understood, feel free to contact me. I'll rewrite the corresponding paragraphs in order to make everything clearer.<br />
<br />
The construction time was two days (without building instructions)<br />
<br />
<br />
- you may keep any typos you find :-)<br />
<br />
<br />
--[[User:Stoffel15|Stoffel15]] 11:35, 3 March 2010 (UTC)<br />
<br />
--translated by [[User:anton|anton]] 15:03, 10 March 2010 (UTC)</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=WolfStrap&diff=7547WolfStrap2010-03-10T14:22:51Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Development<br />
|name = WolfStrap<br />
|description = documenting a generic tool/artpiece<br />
|license = [[GPL]]<br />
|author = Stoffel15<br />
|reprap = ?<br />
|categories = [[:Category:RepStrap|RepStrap]]<br />
}}<br />
<br />
{{merge|WolfStrap-English}}<br />
<br />
=Working Notes=<br />
<span style="color:DarkMagenta"><br />
Text written in dark magenta has been added by the translator, in order clarify certain aspects of the translation, and is not part of the original German article<br />
</span><br />
<br />
=Files=<br />
Google Sketchup 7 File:<br />
[[Image:Reprap.skp]]<br />
=Discussion=<br />
http://dev.forums.reprap.org/read.php?1,37355<br />
<br />
It is difficult to source parts for the Mendel in Germany, so I was looking for a cheap and easy solution to create the parts for myself.<br />
<br />
On top of that it should be mentioned that I am by no means a professional woodworker... the important thing being that it worked.<br />
<br />
To me [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aesthetics Aesthetics] is a foreign word, which I have no knowledge about :) <br />
<br />
I didn't plan to publicize this, but I was asked to do so... <br />
<br />
Comments and suggestions can be made in the [http://dev.forums.reprap.org/read.php?35,37777 German forums].<br />
<br />
The pictures are from different construction and test phases.<br />
This is the end result:<br />
<br />
[[Image:Wolfstrap.jpg|left]] [[Image:Wolfstrap_Seite.jpg|200px|right]][[Image:Wolfstrap Hinten.jpg|200px|center]][[Image:extruder.jpg|200px|right]][[Image:Repstrap Oben.jpg|200px|center]][[Image:Wolfstrap-2.JPG|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
==Extruder==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:Behelfsextruder.jpg|left|200px]]Intially I created the extruder from a block of wood, but I gave up on that idea.<br />
Following that, I build this (image to the left) temporary extruder.<br />
The heater has been moved to the new extruder. It was mounted with two small wood screws on the aluminum angle at the base of the motor. The cable tie prevented the filament from sliding out.<br />
<br />
I used this to create the [http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1794 Wade's Geared Nema 17 Extruder ].[[Image:500px-GearedNema17.jpg|right|200px]]<br />
Because my construction was so difficult to control, I had to reduce the extruder speed way down in the firmware, unfortunately the stepper driver had problems driving the motor smoothly at that speed.<br />
<br />
The Wade-extruder works great.<br />
<br />
Even with a 0.28Nm Stepper.[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Development:Geared_Nema17_Extruder Wiki-Geared_Nema17_Extruder]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
These drawings are known from the Reprap-extruder-page. [[Image:Brass-barrel.jpg|left|200px]][[Image:Thermal-barrier.jpg|left|200px]]<br />
<br />
<br />
Originally I had planned to make the nozzle in the same manner. I discovered the drawing cannot work this way.<br />
<br />
Following a few trials, I performed the following changes:<br />
<br />
The drilling in the brass part, specified as 3.5mm, I used a 3mm drill. The drills are rarely very precise, so the hole usually ends up approximately 3.1-3.2mm in diameter. I made the the hole in the teflon part, the isolator, using a 2.8mm drill. On top of that, I shortened the part to only 25mm long, in order to keep the length of the hole shorter. Teflon is very slippery and is relatively soft. Once the fillament is in the hole, it slides quite easily despite the small diameter. The brass part is very hot, so the filament adapts to the shape. [[Image:Backflow.gif|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
What do I achieve by this?<br />
<br />
I had the problem that the fillament pushed upwards, out of the nozzle, and as soon as everything was cooled down, the nozzle stopped working. (Animation of a [http://spoolhead.blogspot.com/2010/02/extruders-pt-1-backflow-and-bench.html Spoolhead])<br />
<br />
This solved that issue.<br />
<br />
On top of that, I tighted the end with the brass threading with at hose clamp. This way the part is cooled from the outside and the brass nozzle remains in the teflon part even under pressure. Due to the head, the teflon turns soft, and initially the nozzles were pushed out.<br />
<br />
<br />
I glued this contraption onto the Wade-extruder using superglue, and it works.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
==Bill Of Materials==<br />
<span style="color:DarkMagenta"><br />
The dimensions given here are for lumber commonly available in Germany. The width and height matches the German building code for laths supporting a roof, the actual dimensions are not terribly important, and can be adopted to dimensions readily available in your area.<br />
</span><br />
<br />
Planed roof batten 18x45mm <span style="color:DarkMagenta">(Dimensions easily available in Germany, just use something of a similar size)</span><br />
<br />
2x 445mm long (drawer slides X-axis)<br />
<br />
2x 200mm long (drawer slides Z-axis)<br />
<br />
1x ca 300mm long (Attachment for the captive nut, Y-axis)<br />
<br />
2x ca 50mm long (Attachment for the captive nut, X-axis and Z-axis)<br />
<br />
<br />
Planed timber batten 18x70mm <span style="color:DarkMagenta">(Dimensions easily available in Germany, just use something of a similar size)</span><br />
<br />
2x 415mm long (Base frame)<br />
<br />
2x 450mm long (Base frame)<br />
<br />
2x 350mm long (Vertical frame, X-axis)<br />
<br />
1x 160mm long (Z-axis, extruder mount)<br />
<br />
1x 110mm long (Z-axis, motor mount)<br />
<br />
<br />
A wooden board 30x40x18mm (bed), in order to reduce the mass, a 5 mm plywood will be sufficient, thus the motor will expend less power.<br />
<br />
<br />
Everything is plain softwood. The cheap kind from the hardware store. (It is not intended to be long lasting)<br />
Be carefull to choose only straight boards and planks. Leave the warped behind. If you intend for the machine to last longer, better quality wood can be used and glued together as well as using screws.<br />
<br />
All dimensions are rough measurments, some adaptations will be required, so don't hold me accountable for the exact dimensions :-).<br />
<br />
<br />
Metal-drawer slides (Do not use plastic slides)<br />
<br />
2 pairs 250mm (approximately 10€ a pair)<br />
<br />
1 pair 450mm (approximately 12€)<br />
<br />
<br />
Chipboard screws (Spax)<span style="color:DarkMagenta">The most common German brandname is "Spax", but almost any kind of screw can be used</span>[[Image:Spax.jpg|right|100px]]<br />
<br />
4mmx25mm (a good hand full)<br />
<br />
3mmx15mm (a good hand full)<br />
<br />
4mmx35mm (a good hand full)<br />
<br />
Threaded rod 2x approximately 350mm M10; X-Y-axis (I started out with M5s, which I cannot recommend. The machine will move too slow)<br />
<br />
Threaded rod 1x M5 approximately 200mm; Z-axis<br />
<br />
And two matching nuts per axis.<br />
<br />
Oh yeah, a few pieces of aquarium tubing and 4 hose clamps coupling purposes.<br />
<br />
Various metal brackets (for the base frame)[[Image:Metallwinkel.jpg|right|100px]]]<br />
<br />
6x 100x100 mm corner braces<br />
<br />
4x 120x120 mm flat corner braces<br />
<br />
of course hot glue... very important ;-)<br />
<br />
----<br />
==Building instructions==<br />
<br />
Tools required: Try square, measuring tape, dremel, Electric screwdriver, drill bits for wood and a circular saw.<br />
<br />
It is best to begin with the body for the bed, all screws<br />
Am besten fängt man mit dem Grundkörper für den Arbeitstisch an. Alle connections should be pre-drilled with the Dremel and a 2.5mm drill bit, so the woold does not crack<br />
<br />
<span style="color:DarkMagenta">Y Axis</span><br />
<br />
For this we need the 4 wood battens 18x70 (415, 450) mm. Right and left the two long parts. Use this make a rectangular frame and if possible try to stay as close to a right angle as possible. The try square be use full for this. Mount the two long drawer slides on on top of this frame. See to it that they are the parallel, otherwise there will be problems later on. Jetzt zieht man die beiden Schienen raus, so das man an die Löcher zum Verschrauben kommt, und legt das ganze umgekehrt auf die Holzplatte , die später die Arbeitsplatte werden soll, und schraubt die fest. Now pull out the two rails, in order to get at the fastening holes on the slides, and turn the frame over and place the slides on the wooden board which will later become the printing bed, fasten the bed tightly. Test whether it slides without resistance back and forth. Great. Great. Now we draw markings for the motor on the front, drill out the holes and mount the motor. This is a bit easier if we remove the board for printing bed again.<br />
<br />
Now it is time for the captive nut. We'll need the 300mm piece 18 x 45mm batten. We mount it lengthwise under the bed, and push the bed up against the axle of the motor, just hard enough to make a tiny indentation in the wood (This way you don't have to do any measuring). Drill a 12mm hole where the indentation was made, so the M10 rod can easily fit. Now everything is starting to shape up :-)<br />
<br />
Now you can mount the rod to the motor. This requires a piece of aquarium tubing (20-30mm) and push it over the axle of the motor, then tighten the hose to the axle using a hose clamp. Screw a nut on the rod, push the rod through the 12mm hole and add another nut to the other side of the board. Attach the aquarium hose from the motor axle to the rod and tighten the connection using hose clamp. Ensure that it doesn't wobble when the motor is running. The first axis is complete... applause.<br />
<br />
<span style="color:DarkMagenta">X Axis</span><br />
<br />
So now we need the two 18x70x350mm boards and the base frame with the Y-axis. The two boards are positioned in the rear third (approximately 100m from the rear) right and left from the frame. Take great care that the boards are at right angles to the frame and that both the height and distance from the rear is identical, they must be positioned "precisely" opposite each other. You'll need at least 4 screws per board. In order to stabilizing the vertical section we'll attach the crossbeams (18x45x445mm). The first should be flush with the upper edge, ensure that the two vertical boards remain parallel, while attaching the beam. The second should be placed at a distance of about 47-48mm, a 18x45mm board should be able to pass through with comfort, and try to keep the two beams as parallel as possible. It is starting to look quite nicely.<br />
<br />
Drill the holse for the motor on the left side. The middle of the motor axle should be 60mm below the top and flush with the board (The motor axls will then be approx 20mm towards the rear). The motor axle should be as far as possible towards the front, otherwise the fastening for the X axis captive nut will have to too long (and unstable).<br />
<br />
<br />
So until now, everything was quite easy...<br />
<br />
Now it is time for the Z axis. For this we need the 18x70x160mm board and the two 18x45x200mm boards. We place the smaller board, <span style="color:DarkMagenta">which will hold the extruder</span> in front of us and screw the drawer gliders with the small U onto it. As far as possble towards the outer edges, both should be flush with the short side. This is also the side where the detent of the slide drawer is. It is very VERY important to keep the slides parallel, otherwise the Z axis will jam. You must be able to put the motor between the slides, otherwise the motor will not fit later on. Now the two 200mm boards are attached. The outer distance must be 110mm and the edge of the extruder board, where the slides are flush, should also be flush with the two boards. Now everything can be raised up in the vertical, and both drawer slides point upwards (the detent position is downwards). Measure once again if the two boards change their relative distance when the extruder board is moved back and forth, if so, the drawer slides are not parallel. Everything fine? then move on.<br />
<br />
The Z axis is standing vertical in front of you, facing the two boards... take a drawer slide, put it sideways in front of you, the detent position towards the right. This is how it is attached, with the small U centered at the lower end of the boards. One small screw per board. Now let it rest on the extruder board, and attach the second drawer slide the same way, parallel, with at distance of approx 80mm above it. I placed a small guide between the two in order to get them parallel. Slide everything back and forth, it must not jam. So far so good.<br />
<br />
Now everything has to be mounted on the X axis. The best will be to screw both slides on one side first. Not too tight. Now we have to take care, that everything will be parallel to the bed. I used a small support for this. The left hand side first, placing something<span style="color:DarkMagenta">/anything</span> as support, since the precise height does not matter. Then I pushed it right, drew markings, and screwed on. Later on you will have to place something on top of the board, since the wood is never totally flat, this way minor mistakes can be corrected. I use the green plate for this.<br />
<br />
But... something is still missing... of course, the captive nuts.<br />
Now, having mounted the X-axis, it is possible to mark the position for the captive nut on the right board of the Z-axis. I cut a small block of leftover wood 18x45x70mm. The Z axis has to be removed... unfortunately. Only the board with the two drawer slides, the rest should remain attached. When the small block is attached, push it against the motor axle, in order to make a small indentation where the hole (12mm) will need to be drilled. Remove the small block, drill, now glue should be used when it is reattached (this is a weak point). You should be able to push the X-axis back and forth and the block should move between the two crossbeams. Does it? great.<br />
Now the threaded rod can be mounted in the same way as with the Y-axis. Don't forget the nuts, one nut on each side of the block.<br />
<br />
Now only one board should be leftover. 18x70x110mm where the Z motor will be mounted, in such a way that it is positioned in the middle. As you can see, you need to drill two additional holes besides the motor, otherwise the drawer slides will be om tje way. I use 20mm holes. You will have to measure the exact position. It depends on where you mounted your drawer slides. But you have made it sofar, so you will be able to handle that.<br />
<br />
I ran into some issues with the captive nut holder for the Z axis... I tried to do it once more with a small block of wood. Again a piece of the 18x45x25m which I then slotted. I glued two nuts into the slit and screwed the M5 threaded rod onto the nuts. If I had to do it again, I would have used a small angle bracket, the glued nuts in the slit won't hold for long.<br />
<br />
My suggestion would be to use a 50x20x15 angle bracket, drill a hole in the short plate for the threaded rod. Then use the same priciple as with the wooden blocks, place a nut on each side of the holes. This is where your ideas will be needed, I cannot chew all you food :-P<br />
<br />
If you've come this far: Congratulations, you have held out quite long. Now you are probably asking yourselves, what is the purpose of using two nuts for the blocks... if I tightened both too much, the axle would jam. This way I have neutralized the backlash. First glue one nut with hot glue to the block of wood...now the threaded rod will move the block. If you turn the motor slowly back and forth you'll notice that the movement is delayed, this is the backlash. Because of this tighten the second nut carefully, just so that the rod can still turn and then glue the nut. If I ignored the backlash, it would later be visible in the printed parts, holes will be ovals, corners wouldn't be corners, etc.[[Image:Mitnehmer x-y.jpg |right| 200px ]]<br />
<br />
So, I hope it wasn't too complicated.. if there is anything you haven't understood, feel free to contact me. I'll rewrite the corresponding paragraphs in order to make everything clearer.<br />
<br />
The construction time was two days (without building instructions)<br />
<br />
<br />
- you may keep any typos you find :-)<br />
<br />
<br />
--[[User:Stoffel15|Stoffel15]] 11:35, 3 March 2010 (UTC)<br />
<br />
--translated by [[User:anton|anton]] 15:03, 10 March 2010 (UTC)</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=WolfStrap&diff=7509WolfStrap2010-03-09T21:38:41Z<p>Anton: Extruder part has been translated</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Development:Stub}}<br />
{{Development<br />
|name = WolfStrap<br />
|description = documenting a generic tool/artpiece<br />
|license = [[GPL]]<br />
|author = Stoffel15<br />
|reprap = ?<br />
|categories = [[:Category:RepStrap|RepStrap]]<br />
}}<br />
<br />
=Working Notes=<br />
This translation is still ongoing, some paragraphs still needs translation<br />
<br />
=Files=<br />
Google Sketchup 7 File:<br />
[[Image:Reprap.skp]]<br />
=Discussion=<br />
http://dev.forums.reprap.org/read.php?1,37355<br />
<br />
It is difficult to source parts for the Mendel in Germany, so I was looking for a cheap and easy solution to create the parts for myself.<br />
<br />
On top of that it should be mentioned that I am by no means a professional woodworker... the important thing being that it worked.<br />
<br />
To me [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aesthetics Aesthetics] is a foreign word, which I have no knowledge about :) <br />
<br />
I didn't plan to publicize this, but I was asked to do so... <br />
<br />
Comments and suggestions can be made in the [http://dev.forums.reprap.org/read.php?35,37777 German forums].<br />
<br />
The pictures are from different construction and test phases.<br />
This is the end result:<br />
<br />
[[Image:Wolfstrap.jpg|left]] [[Image:Wolfstrap_Seite.jpg|200px|right]][[Image:Wolfstrap Hinten.jpg|200px|center]][[Image:extruder.jpg|200px|right]][[Image:Repstrap Oben.jpg|200px|center]][[Image:Wolfstrap-2.JPG|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
==Extruder==<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:Behelfsextruder.jpg|left|200px]]Intially I created the extruder from a block of wood, but I gave up on that idea.<br />
Following that, I build this (image to the left) temporary extruder.<br />
The heater has been moved to the new extruder. It was mounted with two small wood screws on the aluminum angle at the base of the motor. The cable tie prevented the filament from sliding out.<br />
<br />
I used this to create the [http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1794 Wade's Geared Nema 17 Extruder ].[[Image:500px-GearedNema17.jpg|right|200px]]<br />
Because my construction was so difficult to control, I had to reduce the extruder speed way down in the firmware, unfortunately the stepper driver had problems driving the motor smoothly at that speed.<br />
<br />
The Wade-extruder works great.<br />
<br />
Even with a 0.28Nm Stepper.[http://objects.reprap.org/wiki/Development:Geared_Nema17_Extruder Wiki-Geared_Nema17_Extruder]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
These drawings are known from the Reprap-extruder-page. [[Image:Brass-barrel.jpg|left|200px]][[Image:Thermal-barrier.jpg|left|200px]]<br />
<br />
<br />
Originally I had planned to make the nozzle in the same manner. I discovered the drawing cannot work this way.<br />
<br />
Following a few trials, I performed the following changes:<br />
<br />
The drilling in the brass part, specified as 3.5mm, I used a 3mm drill. The drills are rarely very precise, so the hole usually ends up approximately 3.1-3.2mm in diameter. I made the the hole in the teflon part, the isolator, using a 2.8mm drill. On top of that, I shortened the part to only 25mm long, in order to keep the length of the hole shorter. Teflon is very slippery and is relatively soft. Once the fillament is in the hole, it slides quite easily despite the small diameter. The brass part is very hot, so the filament adapts to the shape. [[Image:Backflow.gif|200px|right]]<br />
<br />
What do I achieve by this?<br />
<br />
I had the problem that the fillament pushed upwards, out of the nozzle, and as soon as everything was cooled down, the nozzle stopped working. (Animation of a [http://spoolhead.blogspot.com/2010/02/extruders-pt-1-backflow-and-bench.html Spoolhead])<br />
<br />
This solved that issue.<br />
<br />
On top of that, I tighted the end with the brass threading with at hose clamp. This way the part is cooled from the outside and the brass nozzle remains in the teflon part even under pressure. Due to the head, the teflon turns soft, and initially the nozzles were pushed out.<br />
<br />
<br />
I glued this contraption onto the Wade-extruder using superglue, and it works.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
==Bill Of Materials==<br />
<br />
planed laths 18x45mm<br />
<br />
2x 445mm long (drawerslides X-Axis)<br />
<br />
2x 200mm lang (drawerslides Z-Axis)<br />
<br />
1x ca 300mm lang (Mitnehmer Tisch, Y-Achse)<br />
<br />
2x ca 50mm lang (Mitnehmer X-Achse, Z-Achse)<br />
<br />
<br />
Gehobelte Holzlatte 18x70mm<br />
<br />
2x 415mm lang (Grundrahmen)<br />
<br />
2x 450mm lang (Grundrahmen)<br />
<br />
2x 350mm lang (Seitenaufbau, X-Achse)<br />
<br />
1x 160mm lang (Z-Achse, Extruderträger)<br />
<br />
1x 110mm lang (Z-Achse, Motorplatte)<br />
<br />
<br />
ein Brett 30x40x18mm (Arbeitstisch) eine 5 mm Sperrholzplatte würde auch reichen, um die Masse zu reduzieren, damit der Motor weniger Kraft aufwenden muss.<br />
<br />
<br />
Alles einfaches Weichholz. Das billige aus dem Baumarkt. (Sollte ja alles nicht lange halten)<br />
Aber achtet drauf, das die Bretter und Latten auch gerade sind. Das krumme Zeug lasst stehen. Wenn´s länger halten soll könnt ihr natürlich besseres Holz nehmen und alles verleimen.<br />
<br />
Alle Maße sind so "Daumen mal PI" also nagelt mich nicht drauf fest :-)<br />
<br />
<br />
Metall-Schubladenschienen (bloß nicht die Plastikdinger)<br />
<br />
2 Paar 25er (ca 10€ das Paar)<br />
<br />
1 Paar 45er (ca 12€)<br />
<br />
<br />
Spanplattenschrauben (Spax)<br />
<br />
4x25 eine Hand voll <br />
<br />
3x15 eine Hand voll<br />
<br />
4x35 eine Hand voll<br />
<br />
Gewindestange 2x ca 350mm M10; X-Y-Achsen (anfangs hatte ich alles mit M5, kann ich nur von abraten. Die Maschine wird dann zu langsam)<br />
<br />
Gewindestange 1x M5 ca 200mm; Z-Achse<br />
<br />
Plus jeweils 2 Muttern pro Achse.<br />
<br />
Achja. Ein paar Stücke Aquariumsschlauch und 4 Schlauchschellen, als Kupplung<br />
<br />
Diverse Metallwinkel (für den unteren Grundrahmen)[[Image:Metallwinkel.jpg|right|100px]]]<br />
<br />
6x 100x100 mm Winkel<br />
<br />
4x 120x120 mm Flachwinkel<br />
<br />
natürlich Heißkleber... wichtig ;-)<br />
<br />
----<br />
==Aufbauanleitung==<br />
<br />
An Werkzeugen wird benötigt, Anschlagwinkel, Rollmaß, Dremel, Akkuschrauber, Holzbohrer und eine Hand(Kreis)säge.<br />
<br />
Am besten fängt man mit dem Grundkörper für den Arbeitstisch an. Alle Verschraubungen sollten mit dem Dremel und einem 2,5 mm Bohrer vor gebohrt werden, damit das Holz nicht reißt.<br />
<br />
Dazu brauchen wir die 4 Holzlatten 18x70 (415; 450) mm. Rechts und links die beiden langen Teile. Daraus macht man einen rechteckigen Rahmen und versucht möglichst im Winkel zu bleiben. Dabei helfen einem die Winkelstücke. Auf diesen Rahmen schraubt man die beiden lange Schubladenschienen. Seht zu das die Parallel sind, sonst gibt es später Probleme. Jetzt zieht man die beiden Schienen raus, so das man an die Löcher zum Verschrauben kommt, und legt das ganze umgekehrt auf die Holzplatte , die später die Arbeitsplatte werden soll, und schraubt die fest. Testen ob es sich ohne Widerstand hin und her schieben lässt. Prima. Jetzt zeichnen wir auf die Frontseite die Löcher für den Motor an Bohren sie und machen den Motor fest . Das geht besser wenn man die Latte wieder ab macht.<br />
<br />
Nun kommt der Mitnehmer dann. Dazu brauchen wir das 300mm Stück 18 x 45 mm Latte. Das schrauben wir erst mal mittig quer unten an die Arbeitsplatte. und schieben den Tisch gegen die Motorwelle, so das ein Abdruck entsteht (dann braucht man nix zu messen). An der stelle bohren wir ein 12mm Loch, so das die M10 Achse bequem durch passt. Sieht doch alles schon mal gut aus :-)<br />
<br />
Jetzt kann man die Achse schon mal am Motor befestigen. Dazu nimmt man das Stück Aquariumsschlauch (20-30 mm) und schiebt es über die Achse des Motors und zieht eine Schlauchschelle drum. Eine Mutter auf die Welle, durchs Loch geschoben, wieder eine Mutter drauf und in den Schlauch damit und ebenfalls eine Schlauchschelle drum. Achtet drauf das das ganze nicht eiert beim Drehen des Motors. Erste Achse fast fertig... applaus.<br />
<br />
So, nun brauchen wir die beiden 18x70x350mm Brettchen und den Grundkorpus mit der Y-Achse. Die beiden Bretter schrauben wir im hinteren Drittel ( so ca. 100mm von hinten ) rechts und links an den Korpus. Achtet auf Winkeligkeit (sowohl in die Höhe als auch zur Arbeitsplatte hin) und die müssen "genau" gegenüber sein. 4 Spax pro Brett müssen schon sein.<br />
Zur Stabilisierung kommen jetzt die beiden Querlatten (18x45x445mm) drauf. Die Erste bündig mit der oberen Kante. Passt auf das die beiden Holme Parallel bleiben. Die 2. im Abstand von ca. 47-48mm dazu, es sollte Hochkant eine 18x45 Latte bequem dazwischen passen, und die Latten müssen möglichst parallel sein. Sieht doch alles schon mal gut aus.<br />
<br />
Links die Bohrungen für den Motor. Die Mitte der Motorachse 60mm von oben und den Motor nach vorne hin bündig mit dem Brett (Motorachse ist dann ca. 20mm von vorne). Die Motorachse sollte so weit wie es geht nach vorne sein, sonst wird der Mitnehmer(X) später zu lang (und instabil).<br />
<br />
<br />
So, bis hierher war ja alles noch ganz easy... <br />
<br />
Jetzt kommt erst mal die Z-Achse drann. Dafür brauchen wir das Stück 18x70x160 mm und die beiden 18x45x200mm . Das Brettchen legen wir vor uns und schrauben die Schubladenschienen mit dem schmalen U darauf. Soweit wie möglich nach außen und zu einer schmalen Seite des Brettchens bündig. An dieser Seite ist auch die Arretierung. Parallel bleiben das ist sehr wichtig WICHTIG, sonst klemmt später die Z-Achse. Ihr müsst den Motor zwischen die beiden Schienen legen können, sonst passt er später nicht. Nun werden die beiden 200er Leisten auf die Schienen geschraubt. Der Außenabstand muss 110mm ergeben und die Seite die am Brettchen bündig ist ist an den Latten auch bündig. Jetzt könnt ihr das ganze Hochkant vor euch stellen, und die beiden Schienen schauen oben raus (Arretierungen sind unten). Messt nochmal ob die beiden Latten den Abstand verändern wenn ihr das Brettchen hin und her schiebt, dann seit ihr nicht Parallel. Alles klar ? Dann weiter im Text.<br />
<br />
Die Z-Achse steht also Hochkant vor euch, ihr seht auf die beiden Latten... nehmt eine Schubladenschiene Legt die Quer vor euch, Arretierung zeigt nach rechts. So schraubt ihr sie mit dem Schmalen U mittig unten an die Leisten. Jeweils eine kurze Schraube pro Leiste. Jetzt Legt das ganze auf das Brettchen und schraubt die 2. Leiste genauso, parallel, im Abstand von ca. 80 mm darüber. Ich hab mir etwas dazwischen gelegt um sie parallel zu kriegen. Schiebt das ganze auf den Schienen hin und her. Es darf nicht klemmen. So weit, so gut.<br />
<br />
Jetzt muß das ganze noch auf die X-Achse geschraubt werden. Am besten beide Schienen an einer Seite anschrauben. Nicht zu fest. Jetzt müssen wir drauf achten, das das ganze zur Arbeitsfläche parallel wird. Ich hab mir bei der Montage etwas drunter gestellt. Links festgeschraubt und dabei etwas drunter gestellt, denn die Höhe spielt hier nur eine nebensächliche Rolle. Dann rüber geschoben, angezeichnet, und fest geschraubt. Später muss man sich eh noch etwas auf den Tisch machen, denn das Holz ist nie ganz eben, damit kann man Fehler noch etwas ausgleichen. Bei mir ist es diese grüne Platte.<br />
<br />
Aber... es fehlt noch etwas... klar, die Mitnehmer. <br />
jetzt wo die X-Achse montiert ist, kann man sich von der Rückseite die Position des Mitnehmers auf der rechten Latte der Z-Achse anzeichnen. Ich habe dazu ein Klötzchen (Reststück) 18x45x70 geschnitten. Dafür muss die Z-Achse aber wieder runter...leider. Aber nur der Brett mit den beiden Schienen. Der Rest bleibt drauf. Wenn jetzt das Klötzchen drann ist, drückt es gegen die Motorachse um zu sehen wo die Bohrung hin kommt (12mm). Klotz wieder ab, Bohren. Jetzt solltet ihr Leim oder Kleber verwenden wenn ihr es wieder anschraubt (das ist bei mir eine Schwachstelle). Jetzt müsse man die X-Achse hin und her schieben können und das Klötzchen bewegt sich zwischen den beiden Querleisten hin und her. Tut´s ? Klasse.<br />
Jetzt kann die Gewindestange genauso wie bei der Y-Achse montiert werden. Muttern nicht vergessen. Auf jeder Seite vom Mitnehmer eine Mutter.<br />
<br />
Jetzt müsste noch ein Brettchen übrig sein. 18x70x110 darauf kommt der Z-Motor. So, das er schön in der Mitte sitzt. Wie ihr seht müsst ihr noch 2 Bohrungen neben den Motor machen, sonst sind die Schienen im Weg. Da hab ich 20er Löcher gebohrt. die Position müsst ihr messen. Es kommt drauf an wie ihr montiert habt. Aber wenn ihr soweit gekommen seit, dann schafft ihr das auch noch.<br />
Beim Mitnehmer der Z-Achse bin ich etwas ins Schleudern gekommen... ich hab das wieder versucht mit einem Klötzchen zu regeln. Wieder ein Stück von dem 18x45 x 25mm das hab ich dann geschlitzt. In diesen Schlitz hab ich dann 2 Muttern geklebt und die M5 Gewindestange da rein gedreht. Ich würde euch aber heute dazu raten, einen Metallwinkel dafür zu verwenden. Die in den Schlitz geklebten Muttern halten auf Dauer nicht.<br />
<br />
Mein Vorschlag wäre, nehmt einen Winkel 50x20x15 bohrt in den kurzen Schenkel ein Loch für die Gewindestange. Dann vom Prinzip her wie bei den Holz-Mitnehmern auch. Auf jeder Seite der Bohrung eine Mutter. Aber hier seit ihr und eure Ideen gefragt, ich kann euch ja nicht alles vorkauen :-P<br />
<br />
Wenn ihr nun bis hier her gekommen seid, Gratulation, habt lange durchgehalten. Jetzt fragt ihr euch bestimmt was soll das mit den beiden Muttern an den Mitnehmern... wenn ich die beide anziehen würde, würden die Achsen blockieren. Damit habe ich das Gewindespiel neutralisiert. Erst mal eine der beiden Muttern mit Heiß-Kleber am Mitnehmer fixiert... jetzt nimmt die Gewindestange die Achse schon mit. Doch wenn ihr den Motor vorsichtig ein wenig hin und her dreht, werdet ihr feststellen das die Achse verzögert mitgeht. Das ist das Gewindespiel. deshalb dreht die 2. Mutter vorsichtig mit etwas Gefühl soweit fest, bis sich die Achse gerade noch bewegen lässt und klebt sie dann fest. Wenn ich das Gewindespiel ignorieren würde, würde man das nachher bei den gedruckten Teilen sehen. Löcher werden oval, Ecken nicht mehr eckig u.s.w.<br />
<br />
So, ich hoffe ich war nicht zu Kompliziert.. wenn ihr irgendwas nicht verstanden habt, meldet euch ruhig. Ich werde dann die entsprechenden Passagen umschreiben um es deutlicher zu machen. <br />
<br />
Ich habe für den Aufbau (ohne Anleitung) 2 Tage gebraucht.<br />
<br />
<br />
- Wer Schreibfehler finden sollte, darf sie behalten :-)<br />
<br />
<br />
--[[User:Stoffel15|Stoffel15]] 11:35, 3 March 2010 (UTC)</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Talk:Motor_FAQ&diff=7475Talk:Motor FAQ2010-03-09T05:36:47Z<p>Anton: New page: In the section: ==Stepper drivers vs Stepper Controllers== It is claimed: "a very small stepper may be driven directly from the controller", wouldn't that apply solely to unidirectional st...</p>
<hr />
<div>In the section:<br />
==Stepper drivers vs Stepper Controllers==<br />
It is claimed: "a very small stepper may be driven directly from the controller", wouldn't that apply solely to unidirectional stepper motors?, since a bi-directional requires a phase change.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Motor_FAQ&diff=7404Motor FAQ2010-03-08T14:01:28Z<p>Anton: First version</p>
<hr />
<div>=Introduction=<br />
<br />
This page tries to answer most of the frequently asked questions related to the choice and operation of stepper motors used by the Reprap. There is a good [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stepper_motor article on wikipedia] explaining the technology behind stepper motors. The physical size of stepper motors are usually described via a US based standard called Nema, the reprap site has an [[NEMA_Motor|article explaining the standard]].<br />
<br />
The [[Mendel_Stepping_Motors|pages related to building a Mendel]] has a list of suppliers of stepping motors.<br />
<br />
The power of a motor is usually proportional to the physical size of the motor, The Darwin version of Reprap primarily used NEMA 24 motors, whereas the Mendel version is designed to use either NEMA 14 or NEMA 17 motors. The more commonly used size is NEMA 17 as it is easier to find NEMA 17 motors with sufficient torque compared to NEMA 14.<br />
<br />
==Torque==<br />
<br />
The Mendel officially requires 0.137Nm torque (1400 g-cm or 1.215 lb-in) for the X, Y and Z axis. Recent designs for extruders almost exclusively require stepper motors as well, but no requirements for torque has been given in those designs.<br />
<br />
==Power and current==<br />
<br />
All stepper motors will have a certain specifications for voltage and current, typically 2.8V and 1.68A, as long as the stepper driver/controller does current control you can use any supply voltage greater than the motor's rated voltage. In fact, a large difference is advantageous to the top speed of the motor. If the motor dirver/controller does not do current control, you must use a supply voltage fairly close to the motor voltage (no more than 2x the voltage specified by the manufacturer) or the motor will overheat and burn out its winding insulation or demagnetize its rotor.<br />
<br />
The 2.3 version of the Reprap axis controllers do have current control.<br />
<br />
==Stepper drivers==<br />
<br />
Sourcing stepper motor drivers can be a bit difficult, the 2.3 stepper drivers for the Reprap is very hard to purchase pre-assembled, sourcing the individual parts and assembling the controllers can be done with just a little bit of skill, for those without skills or materials to assemble the boards, generic stepper controllers purchased from the web. In Europe it will usually be more cost-effective to purchase pre-assembled boards compared to purchasing the individual parts and perform a DIY assembly.<br />
{| border="1"<br />
|+Alternative sources for stepper controllers<br />
|Manufacturer<br />
|Verified<br />
|Location<br />
|Comments<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_info.php?products_id=9402 Sparkfun]]<br />
|No<br />
|US<br />
|Slightly underpowered, at only 750mA/Phase<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/1202 Polulo]]<br />
|Yes<br />
|US<br />
|Can get very warm, active cooling is needed<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180476693873&isIU=1#shId quality-gadgets]]<br />
|No<br />
|GB<br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|[[http://www.diycnc.co.uk/html/driver25.html DIY CNC]]<br />
|No<br />
|GB<br />
|<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Micro stepping==<br />
Microstepping between the pole-positions is made with lower torque than with full-stepping, but has much lower tendency for mechanical oszillation around the step-positions and you can drive with much higer frequencies.<br />
<br />
If your motors are near to mechanical limitations and you have high friction or dynamics, you won't receive much more accuracy. When your motors are 'overpowered' and/or you don't have much friction, then you can transfer the higher positioning accuracy to moving accuracy too.</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=RUG/Danmark&diff=6105RUG/Danmark2010-02-14T10:13:00Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div>Velkommen til den danske RUG's wiki side. Gruppen er lige opstartet, så der er ikke så meget information endnu.<br />
=Translation=<br />
*[[RepRapWiki:Translations]]<br />
*[[YourLanguage]]<br />
<br />
=Meetings=<br />
==Location==<br />
RepRap [[Map]] link.<br />
<br />
==Time==<br />
Vi har endnu ikke nogle møde tidspunkter<br />
<br />
=Mailing List and Forum=<br />
http://dev.forums.reprap.org/index.php?19<br />
<br />
=Nearest Neighboring RepRap User Groups=<br />
*http://dev.forums.reprap.org/index.php?19<br />
*[[RUG]]<br />
*[[Map]]<br />
<br />
=Nearby Robot Hobby Clubs=<br />
* local First Robotics Competition<br />
* local [[RoboOne]] and [[Robot]] hobby group.<br />
<br />
=Geek Groups Meetups=<br />
(keywords: your town, artist-run center, artbot, barcamp, dorkbot, experimental media, ham radio, linux, arduino, blender, circuit bending, RC aircraft, rocketry, cnc, etc.)<br />
This will require a few google searches, where you enter your town and one of the keywords above into the following string:<br />
"Your Town" keyword (meetup OR meeting OR group OR club OR society OR workshop OR hobby)<br />
[dorkbot.org]<br />
[www.arduino.cc]<br />
<br />
* Local/Nearest FabLab or Techshop, <br />
<br />
* Community College with a Machine Shop that people can use?<br />
<br />
* CNC Group Meetups on cnczone.com or otherwise<br />
[www.google.ca]<br />
<br />
=Official RepRap Suppliers=<br />
http://dev.forums.reprap.org/index.php?93<br />
[[Suppliers]]<br />
<br />
=Local Suppliers=<br />
Local Shops may be better or worse than buying from online retailers. This depends on your local shops and what you're getting. Stepper motors you'll want to get online, steel rod - perhaps not. Fasteners, it depends. You may want to check your yellow pages to look these up, as opposed to online.<br />
<br />
* Local Steel Suppliers (e.g. Construction suppliers)<br />
Gevindstænger fåes næsten i alle bygge markeder, jeg købte mine i Jem & Fix, til DKK 17,- pr. meter, den eneste udfordring er at du skal bruge lidt tid på at checke at de er helt lige.<br />
* Local Bearing Suppliers (Skateboard Shop)<br />
<br />
* Local Fastener Suppliers<br />
Din lokale Bauhaus byggemarked har sædvanligvis en hel gang med skruer, møtrikker og bolte, hvor du kan blande og lave "vej selv" poser, alá den måde man laver slik poser på. Prisen er selvfølgelig højere pr. møtrik end hvis man køber i kasser, men på denne måde behøver du ikke købe en hel kasse/pakke.<br />
<br />
* Local Electronics Suppliers<br />
<br />
* Local Machine Tool/Industrial Supply, (Occasionally unwelcome to hobbyists, but who knows?)<br />
<br />
* Local Electronics Surplus Shop<br />
You may want to check:<br />
[www.repairfaq.org] <br />
<br />
[[Category:RUG]]</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Software_Tools&diff=5687Software Tools2010-02-01T17:09:55Z<p>Anton: /* design */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Free/OpenSourced Software (FOSS) Tools ==<br />
<br />
In the 'open' spirit of the RepRap project, we prefer tools that are free and for which the source code is openly available and which work on a range of different operating systems.<br />
<br />
The following tools are usable in at least Windows and Linux and can be downloaded for free and legally shared with other people (typically under the GPL):<br />
<br />
<br />
=== design ===<br />
<br />
* [http://www.blender.org Blender] - A complex - yet very popular - 3D modeller that supports importing and exporting in many formats (including STL and PLY).<br />
* [http://www.artofillusion.org Art of Illusion (AOI)] - A graphics-oriented 3D modeller that's written entirely in Java. can be used to output STL files. or add [[Skeinforge]] to output GCode.<br />
** [http://aoisp.sourceforge.net AOI plugins and scripts] - Using these scripts to AOI adds STL support and some mesh repair capabilities.<br />
* [http://wings.sourceforge.net Wings3D] - A fairly simple 3D modeller. It does not support STL so you'd need to use one of the other packages listed here to convert files as needed.<br />
* [http://www.k-3d.org K3D] - Another simple 3D modeller with no STL support.<br />
* [http://free-cad.sourceforge.net Free-CAD] - A CAD-oriented 3D modeller - appears to be incomplete at this time.<br />
* [http://brlcad.sourceforge.net BRL-CAD] - A CSG-oriented 3D modeller. This tool has been used for over 20 years for military CAD applications. It supports STL.<br />
<br />
=== STL ===<br />
<br />
* [http://www.netfabb.com/ Netfabb] - A tool for repairing and manipulations of STL files. Linux-Version as alpha, version that prints on a RepMan announced.<br />
* [http://www.varlog.com/products/admesh AdMesh] - A tool for checking, repairing and other manipulations of STL files.<br />
* [http://meshlab.sourceforge.net MeshLab] - A 3D modeller that's oriented to cleaning up meshes created from 3D scanners. It has many features useful for STL mesh cleanup.<br />
<br />
=== g-code ===<br />
<br />
* [http://www.bitsfrombytes.com/wiki/index.php?title=Skeinforge Skeinforge]</div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=File:Anton_LB_Assembled.png&diff=5675File:Anton LB Assembled.png2010-01-31T15:43:54Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Antonhttps://reprap.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=File:Anton_LB_Middle.png&diff=5674File:Anton LB Middle.png2010-01-31T15:43:30Z<p>Anton: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>Anton