RoboSculptor makes its first print!

Today I finally found the time to get the RoboSculptor up and running. I made a couple basic print runs utilizing the typical 20mm x 20mm x20mm calibration cube.

The first print run was sliced with Skeinforge. The print was successful, though some tweaking of the slicer profile is necessary. There are some thin layers due to inadequate filament feed.

The second print run was sliced with Slic3r. The filament feed seems adequate, though the nozzle was calibrated too far from the print bed and the first layers of the cube are distorted.

Also I may have a problem with my Z axis. There may be too much wobble due to my design of the Z axis. Though, there may be other issues at hand, this will have to be investigated in the future. Overall, a great start!

RoboSculptor

During the past seven months or so, I’ve been designing and building a new 3D printer that I’m calling the RoboSculptor. It boasts a large build volume of 340mm x 380mm x 470mm (13.5″ x 15″ x 18.5″). This is slightly bigger than the Makerbot Z18 which has a 300mm x 300mm x 457mm (11.75″ x 11.75″ x 18″) build volume.

The RoboSculptor’s mechanical and electronic systems have been finished. The  enclosure components have yet to be installed.

There is easy access to the electronics by lifting the floor panel. Inside contains the power supplies, stepper drivers and controller.

The RoboSculptor works by moving a build platform along the Z axis. An XY gantry above remains stationary.

The print head is moved along the Y axis on a linear rail which is than carried along the X axis by way of round rod and bushings. This allows for full movement at any point on the build platform.

Further testing and all print runs will be recorded by blog entry at www.robosculptor.com.