Hello, thank you for looking at this!
First off, a slight update. I'm working on the 3rd version printer, which should actually be able to print. Since I won an NXT 2.0 in the Toy challenge with this, I should be able to make another one for the next contest that features a Makerbot.
I originally wanted to create a lego 3D printer for the makerbot challenge, but wasn't able to finish it in time. So, since another makerbot is up for grabs, I decided to do a second version of the printer. Since I have no extruder, I can't actually have it be a 3D printer. That's why it's currently configured as a pen plotter. Also, this takes a massive number of parts. I had to scrounge around for all the little pieces I need.
This is my first instructables, so I've decided to do the guide with a combination of two different techniques. I'm using Lego digital designer to design some of the sub-builds. I've exported each sub-build as an html file and html files are each given a number. (All of which are in the "building instructions.zip" file) I'll reference them by B#. ie, B1, B2 or whatever. So when I say build 2 of B1, I mean open up 1.html and build it twice. If you have Lego Digital Designer (LDD) and would rather use it, the "models.zip" file has all of them by the same number. It's just B1 is 1.lxf instead of 1.html. Sorry if that's confusing. The second approach was to take pictures of putting the sub-builds together.
Here is a video demonstrating what it can do:
First off, a slight update. I'm working on the 3rd version printer, which should actually be able to print. Since I won an NXT 2.0 in the Toy challenge with this, I should be able to make another one for the next contest that features a Makerbot.
I originally wanted to create a lego 3D printer for the makerbot challenge, but wasn't able to finish it in time. So, since another makerbot is up for grabs, I decided to do a second version of the printer. Since I have no extruder, I can't actually have it be a 3D printer. That's why it's currently configured as a pen plotter. Also, this takes a massive number of parts. I had to scrounge around for all the little pieces I need.
This is my first instructables, so I've decided to do the guide with a combination of two different techniques. I'm using Lego digital designer to design some of the sub-builds. I've exported each sub-build as an html file and html files are each given a number. (All of which are in the "building instructions.zip" file) I'll reference them by B#. ie, B1, B2 or whatever. So when I say build 2 of B1, I mean open up 1.html and build it twice. If you have Lego Digital Designer (LDD) and would rather use it, the "models.zip" file has all of them by the same number. It's just B1 is 1.lxf instead of 1.html. Sorry if that's confusing. The second approach was to take pictures of putting the sub-builds together.
Here is a video demonstrating what it can do:
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Signing UpStep 1: 3d Printer sides: The triangles
So the first thing to build is the sides. I'm going to show you with the Z axis rail, but we will remove that later to put in the Z platform. Don't worry, it's pretty easy to do. I designed it mostly in Lego digital designer, but there were two pieces it didn't let me put in, so I'll show you that in the picture. Go ahead and build 2 of B1 (Open 1.html in the building instructions folder, and build it twice). I've also included the 1.lxf file if you have LDD and would rather use that. The html file is just a little bit weird. I think they need to work on their building instructions algorithm. Anyway, see the pictures for the two pieces that were missing and where they go. (One piece for each side.)
The main picture is one side fully assembled.
The main picture is one side fully assembled.
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At the time I built this, I did not have enough for a pl3d printer.
I already commented about the second version, but as for this version: I don't think I'll go back to this design. It's too unstable. Especially the build platform. It could never work for actual printing. The second one was designed to, so I know that it can.
I'm currently working on a delta Robot out of Legos, though, so stay tuned.
But with just one kit, you cannot build this model. You need more pieces than that.
I would love to see it added to the 3D print group I have just started
http://www.instructables.com/group/3Dprint/
Thanks
I'm re-writing part of the lejos firmware to be able to have custom USB configurations and endpoints while the program is running. In this case, it would be a CDC device. ie, it would emulate a serial port, and replicatorg can automatically connect to that serial port too. I'm not entirely sure how the bluetooth <-> serial port works. All I know is that I connected and paired it, and it showed up as that /dev/tty.nxt port.
But yeah, I think I'll wait til v3. Thanks though, and I hope I get your vote!
Thank you, and I hope you vote for me!
It could be able to use an extruder for 3d printing if you make sure to not let the hot part hit any of the legos, it extrudes the plastic that legos are made of(just a fun fact)
Good job though and I will vote for you, if you vote back for an instructable that I am almost done with
Yeah, I took after a reprap mendel for this design. And yeah, I know about the ABS plastic limitation, which is why I didn't bother attempting to design a full one for this project. I guess I good for v3. I'll design it with that in mind.
But yes, thank you for the vote. Looking at some of your other projects, I'll probably give you a vote. I like origami and other paper craft related things too.
And thanks, I try to be unique and use what I have, As far as I know and i have looked up for anything like it, I couldn't find anything like a few of my instructables, no one has made it before
And I cant wait for v3 Subscribed :)
"Multiple entries are accepted, but each entrant can only win one prize. Contest is open to international entries. Contest closes for entries at 11:59pm PDT, July 4."
And i just published it