My Build Log - Low Cost DLP Printer (Hopefully Under £800)
Posted: Thu Mar 12, 2015 11:01 am
I am going to use this space to log my efforts in building my own DLP printer.
Before getting on to my build plans I will introduce myself as I am new to the forum. I am Andy, I recently graduated from Strathclyde University with an MEng in Product Design Engineering. I made a lot of focus on 3D printing whilst there, doing research on additive manufacture and also working on various 3D printing projects. Before completing university I started my own product design/3D printing business called Depth Design with a couple of colleagues. I have had some experience in making FDM 3D printers, my proudest achievement being the Foldarap I built(http://reprap.org/wiki/FoldaRap).
The ultimate goal of designing our own DLP printer is to get to know the technology, but as an added bonus it will give Depth Design more printing capabilities.
I have decided to base my design on the LittleRP to an extent, but instead of a laser cut enclosure/frame I am going to go for the same style as used in the Foldarap Reprap printer with 3D printed corners and connections. I actually considered using an almost identical design to the Foldarap, utilising the same Z axis mechanism however I dont think it would be as accurate as I would like.
I will use the same type of Z axis mechanism as the LittleRP, using a servo leadscrew and a linear bearing rail/block.
I am in two minds whether to use two mirrors so I can mount the projector behind the z axis facing down, I'm not sure if this is the best idea or not? If the projector is safe enough to put here I will as it will reduce the footprint of the printer.
I haven't thought about the printing vat and build surface yet, I will just have to make sure I make the rest of the design flexible enough to accomodate whatever option I go with.
Wish me luck
Before getting on to my build plans I will introduce myself as I am new to the forum. I am Andy, I recently graduated from Strathclyde University with an MEng in Product Design Engineering. I made a lot of focus on 3D printing whilst there, doing research on additive manufacture and also working on various 3D printing projects. Before completing university I started my own product design/3D printing business called Depth Design with a couple of colleagues. I have had some experience in making FDM 3D printers, my proudest achievement being the Foldarap I built(http://reprap.org/wiki/FoldaRap).
The ultimate goal of designing our own DLP printer is to get to know the technology, but as an added bonus it will give Depth Design more printing capabilities.
I have decided to base my design on the LittleRP to an extent, but instead of a laser cut enclosure/frame I am going to go for the same style as used in the Foldarap Reprap printer with 3D printed corners and connections. I actually considered using an almost identical design to the Foldarap, utilising the same Z axis mechanism however I dont think it would be as accurate as I would like.
I will use the same type of Z axis mechanism as the LittleRP, using a servo leadscrew and a linear bearing rail/block.
I am in two minds whether to use two mirrors so I can mount the projector behind the z axis facing down, I'm not sure if this is the best idea or not? If the projector is safe enough to put here I will as it will reduce the footprint of the printer.
I haven't thought about the printing vat and build surface yet, I will just have to make sure I make the rest of the design flexible enough to accomodate whatever option I go with.
Wish me luck