Concept: Interchangable tools for delta robot (Rostock, kossel, etc)

thingiverse

The idea is a spinning tool carousel that meets at the perfect angle with the build space to put a tool right within the robot's arms' reach. This way you could automatically change filaments or switch between completely different tools (like a Dremel, a plotter pen, etc., etc.). See the instructional page for specifics on how it functions. This is merely an idea at this stage, but feel free to run with it if you're feeling adventurous! I have included an OpenSCAD file that I've been using to visualize the geometry. How It Functions: 1. The carousel rotates into position at a vacant slot and the arms lower the currently used tool down into it. 2. An electromagnet activates in the carousel, holding the tool firmly in place. 3. The arms pull back, clearing out of the way and leaving the tool behind. 4. The carousel pivots over to the new tool. 5. As the arms make their return trip, they secure the tool snugly into position with the assistance of permanent magnets. Caveats: 1. You will lose some build volume as a result (In my honest opinion, though, the possibilities more than make up for it). 2. The firmware controlling the carousel needs to be smart enough not to tangle the tools' tubes and cords. 3. The tools have to line up properly so they end up right where they're supposed to.