Aixiz laser module holder for MGS extruder

thingiverse

I crafted an adapter for my Aixiz laser module to transform my Mendel into a powerful 2D laser engraving machine. CAUTION: BEWARE, THE LASER IS INTENSE! WEAR PROTECTIVE GLASSES TO PREVENT INJURY FROM LASER EXPOSURE! To connect the Aixiz laser module to my MGS extruder, I exploited a pre-existing hole in the extruder for easy attachment. A few simple zip ties sealed the deal. I recently outfitted my Mendel i2 with a laser module to tackle precise engraving and cutting of small items. With Marlin Firmware controlling operations on RAMPS 1.4, my machine is performing at its best. My laser module consists of an Aixiz housing coupled with a vibrant red diode sourced from a repurposed DVD Recorder: http://www.insaneware.de/Aixiz-Lasermodul-Leergehaeuse-Punktoptik I employ Inkscape for generating 2D designs and effortlessly convert them into GCODE using an extension: https://github.com/ringo2k/laserengraverInkscapeplugin. Minor firmware adjustments within Marlin were necessary to accommodate M3 and M5 commands controlling the laser's movements: (https://github.com/ringo2k/Marlin/commit/eeccc0bf93881d14582e844aa4cd383413825a75). Generated GCODE can be directly transmitted to the 3D printer via Pronterface. Maybe, I will prepare a detailed how-to guide in the near future. With this upgrade, my Mendel is now capable of etching plastic materials and slicing through rubber foam with ease (3mm is child's play) as well as tearing duct tape apart effortlessly. This technology unlocks vast possibilities for 3D printing enthusiasts! Though I lack dark-colored filament at present, which would allow the laser to effectively mark items printed on my Mendel, this limitation will soon be resolved after further refinement and calibration... The machine in action: http://youtu.be/RwCWEFrIKZs