Adjustable tension carriage (Max Micron and other Prusa i3)

pinshape

This is still in development, so any constructive feedback is welcome. I'm currently using version 2, and version 3 has only minor additions, but please let me know of any issues you encounter. I got tired of the difficulties that come with installing a properly tensioned belt on my Max Micron printer. It's either too tight or too loose. And then the add-on type adjustable tensioners are mostly prone to breaking or "lean" the belt. The springs and arch-type clip-on tensioners cause vibrations and/or bind the movement of the belt. So I designed this, a sort of set-it-and-forget-it tensioner that has the ability to be adjusted down to counter printer wear and such. Here are my thoughts on its benefits: • No vibration or feedback into prints • No loss of travel length like clips or "ziptie" methods that can hit the pulley or motor on extreme travel. • Stronger than most pulley adjuster setups I've seen and used. • Cleaner belt alignment & movement over "clip-on" tensioners • Set it and forget it (but can still be adjusted later) • All nuts are inset for ease and less tools needed • Belt tension tightens nut to maintain hold. The harder it pulls, the tighter it gets. • All mounting and screws should stay the same as stock with just the addition of the M5 nut and bolt for the adjuster. Note 1: Tolerances are kinda tight, recommend 0.1 or better resolution and 50% infill or greater for strength (best to use 100% really). Note 2: Belt tightens with bolt tightening, use caution not to over-tighten belt!