[Old Version] Lars' Ultralight Ultimaker XY Blocks

youmagine

*** New version published *** https://www.youmagine.com/designs/lars-v2-ultimaker-xy-blocks/edit After switching to a GT2 belt setup, I needed a solid belt clamping mechanism without integrated tensioning complications. I decided to design my own XY blocks. Factory bronze bushings are very prone to clamping deformation and binding. To avoid these issues, I designed these blocks around replacement bushings with 12mm OD instead of the stock 11mm. If there is interest, I can create an 11mm version as well. I made allowances for inserting M3 nuts into the blocks for all connections, so no plastic threads are relied on. However, I left holes in the block back face to thread in an M3 bolt in various positions to trigger limit switches. This means you can print four identical blocks and decide which need a bolt, where. One of the biggest benefits of this design is the ability to square the print head by loosening a single bolt on each block to release the belt. This eliminates fumbling with pulley set screws! With no drag from belts or spinning pulleys on 8mm shafts, you have a clear picture of how freely your print head moves. I discovered that my printed print head was holding 6mm shafts slightly out of square, forcing them to be squared to the 8mm shafts induced bind. Simply loosen belt clamps on two opposing XY blocks, move the print head back and forth by hand, and reclamp. I have added models for a few custom machine configurations. If you have a stock Ultimaker, you need: (4) XY Block - 11mm bushing / 6mm rod (4) Shaft Clamp 6mm (4) Belt clamp (or the "tight" variant for more clamping power) Otherwise, you can pick the appropriate files based on your machine's perimeter bushings and rods.