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 | |
| Contributors | |
| 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
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
-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.
I'm also working on a threaded rod based shuttle system based on my printed threaded rod.
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.
