I just noticed that two parts I designed (an X-axis tensioner and Y-axis tensioner) are suggested prints on the MakerBot wiki. (Yes, I know it’s an open wiki – but I swear I didn’t add these things myself). It’s pretty cool that generations of MakerBots may be using upgrades I designed.
Internet fame and fortune are mine!
In terms of maintenance, there’s not much a MakerBot needs to stay happy:
What did I miss? How often do you do these things?
This most recent Z-Woggle arrester/eliminator is one of the most interesting. Unlike the super-fantastic Z axis crank, this part does more than just make the MakerBot easier to use – it will almost certainly improve the quality of your prints. Also, unlike it’s predecessors it does not require the installation of a second set of Z axis rods.
It’s pretty amazing how quickly upgrade parts can evolve. The first version of this upgrade was posted on April 7, 2010 and this pretty nifty version was posted on May 10, 2010.
Another thing I like about this part is it easily made with a 3D printer, but much more difficult to manage with just a laser cutter.
One possible issue I could see with this part is that it may cost you a slight bit of Z axis resolution. Since the part doesn’t appear to fit snugly in the Z stage, the Z axis rod will have to rotate a little before it will “catch.” (Or, so I suspect).
I’ve seen it suggested on the MakerBot Operator’s group (I forget who…) that Z axis rod wobble can be introduced where the bearings fit on the Z axis rods. This is an interesting possible source of error… and a solution!
It would seem that if the placement of the bearing on the rod can introduce warp, it might be able to slightly counteract warp as well. I’ve gotten my Z axis wobble mostly under control.
Calibration is proving to be a relatively slow process. As you can see from my prior post, my prints are drifting towards the back of the MakerBot. This appears to be due to either improper tension, the power being set too low for the Y stepper motor, and/or the Y axis rods not being smooth/oiled/straight enough. Given that the first few layers are spot on, I suspect it is a stepper board power issue. The Y axis motor is easily the first quietest of the three axes. As the X axis motor is the nosiest, I could probably dial it back without an effect on performance.
To do for tonight:
Just connected the MakerBot to my computer to test things out. It looks like I can manipulate the X and Z axes but not the Y axis. Also, the heater was bubbling and oozing some clear stuff – with no plastic being fed into it. A burning smell and a little bit of smoke probably aren’t optimal.
These are not good things.
The body is painted, bolted together, rods have been cleaned, XY stage installed, boards soldered and bolted on, cables run.1 I’ve affixed the opto-endstop triggers on the X and Y axes.