Akimbo - A redesign of the Mendel Frame

thingiverse

Akimbo is a redesigned Mendel frame with increased build area, dual extrusion and easier assembly. The top of the frame tilts outward to enhance rigidity and protect carriage and extruder parts from collision. The space between horizontal bars measures 100mm for motor placement ease. Akimbo's squared frame design uses jigs and parts that enforce geometry. A hybrid movement system, featuring LM8UU bearings and roller bearings, ensures smooth operation. It supports two separate tool carriages for simultaneous use of different extruders with distinct hot-end lengths. Threaded and smooth rod lengths are compatible with Sells or Prusa designs. GitHub sources are available, alongside specific jig measurements. Version 0.2 fixed issues, added Z axis clamps while version 0.3 improved printability and strengthened Z linear rod clamps. Version 0.4 included X axis, extruders, carriages, and some Y axis parts, with version 0.5 finalizing the Y axis design. Non-standard endstops are used.