Flashforge Creator Pro and similar JTech Photonics Laser mount

thingiverse

I am removing my left stepper motor and extruder, replacing them with a 2.8W laser from JTech Photonics - the Alpha version is still untested, but it will allow the laser to shine through the removed extruder hole in the extruder bar. I will redesign the top plate as needed. I'm bringing this out of Work in Progress Status since I've installed and finalized the mount and case code. Update 4: The part is printed and installed, with a few minor tweaks still needed - it's working well enough for now. Development continues, and I have also added a case to mount the laser control board at the printer's rear. I'm working with Simplify3D developers on a profile or method to generate an STL that works seamlessly with the laser. Update 3: I combined both pieces into one - though they haven't been printed yet, everything should line up perfectly. The individual parts work together well enough for now. I plan to finish wiring in the bot tomorrow and also make a case for mounting the board at its back. A thread insert screw and 6mm push lock is designed into the filament feed tube. Update 2: This is my first print-ready version. I should receive the laser today, so it will get printed and test-fit tonight. Eventually, the top piece, stepper mount, and laser mount will all be part of a single print. Update 1: Some modifications were made to the left stepper replacement after realizing the laser didn't need to be centered. It's still in Work in Progress and unprinted. The top plate remains a work-in-progress too. Follow the instructions on JTechPhotonics' website for installation and hook-up procedures. Print the controller case, laser mount, both with supports needed. You will need to remove left stepper motor, fan, heatsink, extruder, heater, and thermocouple. Use 2 M3 nuts (included in spare parts bag) to secure mount to extruder bar - and reuse fan mounting bolts, some of which may be in your spare parts. Disconnect the active cooling fan controlled by M126 / M127 (on EXTRA header for AT2650 board) when using the laser. To print with laser: install Inkscape, then Inkscape Unicorn to gcode plugin. Generate the G-Code. Manually edit G-code - look at the attached examples for more information.