Modified MicroCube-X 3D Printer

thingiverse

An Evolution of the Microcube-hypercube Hybrid This is a Remix of Peter47_A's Designed and Built Microcube-Hypercube Hybrid The design builds on the foundation laid by Peter47_a, incorporating similar elements while introducing modifications to enhance rigidity and stability. The MicroCube X-Plus hybrid printer retains the core concept of its predecessor but has undergone significant refinements. The name "MicroCube X-Plus" signifies a derivative of the original design, indicating that it is an evolved version while maintaining compatibility with Peter47_a's creation. This adaptation can be seamlessly integrated into his design or even the original MicroCube with minor adjustments. Structurally, this printer features a tube-style configuration utilizing 8mm tubing as its primary component. The Y-axis rods serve as part of the support structure, ensuring stability and precision. The corner brackets are designed to securely fasten the tubing in place using multiple fasteners, eliminating material flex. This modular design approach allows for adaptability, enabling the inside brackets to be redesigned without reprinting the entire assembly. All components are held together by M3 socket cap screws of varying lengths and melt-in type M3 threaded brass inserts. The printer's framework is supported by 8mm rods and linear bearings, with the X and Y axes utilizing 250mm long rods while the Z-axis employs 300mm rods. Linear bearings measuring 8mm x 15mm and 17mm in length are used, with two of them positioned butted together for the y-axis mount. A spacer is added to accommodate the x-axis setup. The stop switches are mounted on removable brackets, allowing for the use of different switch designs without re-printing structural components. The lead-screw features a removable bushing at its upper mount, enabling multiple diameters of lead screws to be used. Bushings for 8mm and 10mm screws have been included. This design adheres to Peter47_a's original specifications, utilizing Nema 11 stepper motors on all three axes and driving GT2 belt and pulleys. The extruder is an E3D-V6 type, fed by a remotely mounted NEMA 17 stepper pushing 1.75mm filament through a standard bowden tube setup. The Z-axis is moved by a T8 lead screw connected to the stepper motor via a clamping coupler. The printer is controlled by an MKS 1.4 RAMPS board with integrated stepper drivers, a 24-volt DC power supply, and Makerbot designed stop switches. Marlin firmware governs its operation. To accommodate users' requests, I have added designs allowing for the use of NEMA 17 motors on all axes as a separate remix. This adaptation can be found at https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4281936. Updates: 9/13/2019: This design is still in development, with all mechanical parts printed and assembly underway. Parts may undergo changes as the printer's performance is tested. IGES versions of the parts will be uploaded once the design is finalized. 11/15/2019: The printer has been successfully assembled, and a video showcasing its operation has been shared. Since the last update, an extruder mount for NEMA 17 stepper motors has been added, along with a cooling-fan bracket to maintain the Z-axis stepper's temperature. The X and Y axis stepper motors were reprinted in ABS due to overheating issues. 4/12/2020: All files have been reuploaded to ensure access to the most recent versions. Exploded-views will be included soon to facilitate assembly clarification. 4/13/2020: A glass bed was attempted, but the NEMA 11 Z-axis stepper lacked sufficient power. In response to user requests, I designed NEMA 17 mounts for the Z-axis. The existing NEMA 11's are performing well on the X and Y axes, so there is no intention to modify them. Additionally, my version of Marlin has been added for users' convenience. This adaptation includes coding changes necessary for an MK Makerbase 1.6 main board with a Kingprint 12864 LCD setup. 4/15/2020: Solidworks files have been included for users who wish to modify the original designs. A fan bracket for the mainboard has also been added, which was inadvertently omitted from the initial upload.