Flashforge/Replicator Z-Axis Gantry Ribcage

thingiverse

I dislike the dull wood backplates that our machines feature, and believe that 3DP parts could be significantly stiffer and more visually appealing. I also wanted to experiment with optimization using Altair Inspire, as I currently have a demo of it available. I created models before adding in optimization features, then added fine details to finish them up. And so, this "ribcage" for the Z-axis of our machines was born. You'll need to trim the bottom blocks down to size in order to fit them into your plywood correctly, as I modeled them slightly too large. Look at my installation and you'll see that I broke one arm - it's not perfect but it has greatly improved over stock. The Z axis is now rock-solid. It works best with RC-Lohas stainless stiffeners and the spacer blocks for them located here on Thingiverse (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:770902) Designed for a 5mm thick sheet of glass, but you can lower the mech-stop-block by cutting it away to accommodate stock build plates if needed. YMMV. Print Settings Rafts: No Supports: Yes Notes: Either print this design as-is or from the underside. You'll need supports under the entire structure if printed upright. Scale by 10 - I made a mistake, and it's incorrectly scaled :P