Geared Platform for Ciclop 3D Scanner

thingiverse

Update 22-07-2016: I've now switched to this custom-built platform, complete with a robust metal bearing. In doing so, I was able to largely ditch the printed bearings altogether. As a result, I can now confidently scan at an impressive 8800 steps per revolution (achievable thanks to my 1/8 microstepping setup and 0.9 degree-per-step precision). Provided you calibrate your gears with the correct extrusion multiplier on your printer - something that should be adjusted according to its specific requirements - it's entirely feasible to achieve near-zero backlash in this assembly. In fact, it produces truly excellent scans. This upgraded design constitutes a clever modification to the BQ Ciclop, featuring a crucial 2.75:1 gear reduction within the turntable drive mechanism. I'd discovered that my direct drive arrangement proved alarmingly fragile when operating at 12VDC supply levels. However, incorporating a high-quality metal bearing or - in its place - a carefully printed gear-bearing essentially guaranteed inaccurate stepping. Thankfully, the exterior dimensions remain identical to the original BQ Ciclop buildout except for slightly longer motor support legs to account for this enhanced specification. With a little fine-tuning - likely necessitating nothing more than slight adjustments here and there - I've made this configuration compatible with any Ciclop-based 3D scanner on the market. As a testament to this effort, my revised turntable now boasts additional stability courtesy of its reinforced table base. Browse through some of my other Ciclop-inspired projects for a closer look at related components!