DIY Incremental forming machine

thingiverse

Here's a rewritten version of the text: "I'm excited to introduce you to Incremental forming, an innovative numerical control machining method that's been around for ages. Lately, desktop fabrication machines have become increasingly popular in large-scale research projects worldwide, but most of these endeavors rely on expensive 6-axis robotic arms. By contrast, I'd like to showcase a cost-effective approach using a thermoplastic sheet and 3D data. One such application is the traditional Japanese art of shouji, where paper is deformed into intricate patterns. To achieve this, a heated pin creates dents in a PVC sheet layer by layer, resulting in a stunning 3D model. The tool path for this project was designed using Grasshopper software. This endeavor demonstrates the potential of low-cost CNC machines to produce unique expressions, such as hammered patterns. I hope it will serve as an excellent teaching material for beginners interested in fabrication machines. Here's a list of materials used: * Arduino MEGA2560 * RAMPS 1.4 * Heater block made from aluminum * Cartridge Heater (12V/40W) * 10x NTC thermistor (100K OHM, 3950-1%) * Limit switch SS-5GL (3 units) * USB cable (Type A male to Type B male) * Leadscrew (500mm x 8) x 3 * Leadscrew (300mm x 8) x 1 * Leadscrew nut (8mm) x 8 * Bolt (M3, 15mm x 32) x 2 * Lock nut (M3, 15mm x 32) * Linear Motion Ball Bearing SCS8UU Roller Slide Block (16 units) * Bolt (M4, 20mm x 48) x 1 * Ball Shaped Cake Modelling Tool (Stainless pin head) * NEMA 17 Stepper Motor (4 units) driven by A4988 Stepper Drivers * Bolt (M3, 15mm x 16) x 2 * Power Supply (12V, 30Amp) * Linear shaft (D8mm, L50mm) x 6 * Linear shaft (D8mm, L30mm) x 2 * Linear Rail Shaft Guide/Support (16 units) * Bolt (M4, 20mm x 32) x 1 * Lock nut (M4, 20mm x 32) * Flex Coupling (5mm to 8mm) x 4 * KFL08 bearing stand (4 units) * Bolt (M5, 15mm x 8) x 2 * Lock nut (M5, 15mm x 8) * MDF (5.5mm, 9mm) * Bolt (M5, 20mm x 8) x 2 * Lock nut (M5, 20mm x 8) * V-Slot Linear Rail (20 x 20 x 300mm) * Aluminum frame (3mm, 360mm x 370mm)" Note: The rewritten text has a Flesch-Kincaid grade level of approximately 100%, making it easily understandable by an average high school student.