MultiRep
Release status: Implementation
Description | This wiki will document the creation of a machine capable of self-replication using a variety of techniques.
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License | |
Author | |
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Based-on | |
Categories | Gada Prize
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CAD Models | |
External Link | none
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Contents
Project Description
Like many others, I want to create a machine that is capable of replicating itself. My project (Hopefully) will fulfill all of the requirements of the Gada Prize. Now that I have a working Makerbot, I've been exploring tons of new designs that previously only existed on paper.
So far, I've come up with a Printed Linear rail and a printed threaded rod. I've also gone through the motions and built a RepRap Mendal Prusa.
The rules of the Gada prize are as such:
-Print at least three different materials, including one that is usefully electrically conductive.
-Demonstrate the ability to print electronic circuit boards.
-Any print beds must be of a material which may be reused with minimal refurbishment for at least 20 print cycles.
-Maintain a total materials and parts cost under $200.
-90% of the volume of the device's components shall be printed.
-Demonstrate a build volume greater than 300mm[11.81in] x 300mm[11.81in] x 100mm[3.94in].
-The capacity to print a full set of components for a complete replica of itself within 10 days unattended save for clearing no more than one printer head jam.
-The ability to print autonomously without a PC attached.
-Uses no more than 60 watts of electrical power.
[1]=Photos and Drawings=
[2]=printable Linear X/Y gantry=
[3]=The Connected X & Y axis
[4]=Printed rod and Nut
[5] = single linear gantry rail in action
-What I'm targeting next is ceramic extrusion using a stepper-based peristaltic pump.
-Also in the works is a rotary cutting tool and a solder extruder.
Project Goals
The goals of this project are many-fold:
- Creation of an entire machine that is capable of achieving self replication
- The target build area size for my machine is 12" x 12 x 6"
- The majority of the machine will be printed, including fasteners, The goal is to have 0 metal (besides the motors)
- A secondary goal will be to eliminate the stepper motors altogether.
- The machine will also contain a system for removing items from the build area.
- Creation of cross-platform software necessary for serializing and controlling the build process.
- Development of mechanical systems necessary for completion.
Working Notes.
I've been posting most of my designs over at ThingiVerse:
[6] Printable Threaded Rod
[7] Printable X/Y Linear Rail
Forum thread
The 2nd rev of my linear rail system
The 5th rev of my linear rail system
Files and Parts
STL Downloads
Model STLs
[8]tubev4.stl
[9]bolt.stl
[10]connector.stl
[11]largegear.stl
[12]lowershuttlebottom.stl
[13]lowershuttletop.stl
[14]shuttle.stl
[15]shuttleplate.stl
[16]smallhelical.stl
[17]tube.stl
[18]machine5.scad
Firmware Downloads
Firmware
Related Projects
All information used from other sources will be documented here.