MakerFarm i3v y-axis belt mount

thingiverse

This mount provides improved functionality for attaching the y-axis belt to the y-bed on MakerFarm i3v-series printers. A major concern with the OEM mounting method is securing a tight belt connection using zip ties around the belt loops' ends. Additionally, wrapping the belt around M3 screws can result in backlash/ripple as the belt rocks on its teeth or as the teeth compress during acceleration and then loosen later. The following components are added to the MakerFarm wood belt mount to serve as clamps for attaching the belt. The clamp plate features form-fitting GT2 2mm belt teeth using linear extruded polygon data from Parametric Pulley, located at http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:16627. This tooth pattern provides a secure method for attaching the belt. To accommodate the clamp, the M3x25mm bolt used by MakerFarm to attach the y-belt mount to the y-bed needs to be lengthened to M3x35mm. Detailed instructions can be found in the openSCAD script provided. This is designed as a complement to the x-axis belt mount located at http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:790207. To assemble, follow the instructions within the openSCAD script for tailoring the clamp, sizing the belt, and installing it. These components are structural in nature. The author printed their parts with 3 perimeters, 3 solid top & bottom layers, and 80% infill using Simplify3D as their slicer. A clearance issue between the end of the M3x35mm bolt and the return path of the belt can arise. A pulley on the Y-idler bearings is recommended to increase this clearance - see http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:790138 for a suitable option. If belt clearance remains an issue as the y-bed approaches the y-motor, a freestanding or freewheeling idler pulley can also be added between the belt near the y-motor.