Projects/MendelMax

Discussions about a RepRap for the space resulted in the conclusion that for maximum durability we should build a Mendel Max.

Current Status

The Space MendelMax currently requires :

• Motors - 5 needed for single extrusion, 6 if we go fancy dual extrusion - eMakershop a possibility
• Smooth Rods - Metal Supermarket, all 8mm we have decided
• Electronics - SmoothieBoard or 4Pi arm-based electronics are ideal, but mostly only about to be released
• Extruder/Hot End - I have a spare heated nozzle ready, there's a CPU heatsink we can probably retrofit, and with the quick-fit extruder, that may be all that's needed, we will see.
• Heated bed* - I have got a slightly iffy quote from china (direct import) for $45 each for 2 with $40 delivery
• Possibly some more LM8UU bearings

(*)A heated bed is not strictly necessary for PLA but makes it a lot more reliable, and essential for ABS

Suppliers

• Martyn R for printed parts. (Printing in progress)
• Misumi for aluminium extrusions (collected from Bob C 2012-08-18).
• Metal Supermarket (smooth rod)
• Zapp Automation (steppers)

Shopping List

• Structure
  • Plastic parts
  • T-Slot aluminium
  • Nuts and bolts for above
  • 8mm smooth rod 4*550mm (X&Y axis) 2*460mm (Z axis) TBA by Joe/Japoteg ETA 23/10/12

(Confirm with Martyn before ordering)

• Mechanical
  • LM8UU bearings
  • 5*NEMA 17 bipolar/hybrid stepper motors (Torque >=13.7 N-cm/1400 g-cm/19.4 oz-in, 5mm shaft).

• Electronics
  • 4pi?
  • Smoothieboard?