Open Pick-N-Place Tape Feeder

thingiverse

The files for this open-source 3D pick-and-place tape feeder have been moved to YouMagine, where you can find them at https://www.youmagine.com/designs/open-pick-n-place-tape-feeder. This project is part of my efforts to automate PCB assembly using a 3D printer with a pick-and-place toolhead instead of purchasing an expensive machine. The design, created in OpenSCAD, can be easily adjusted for various SMD tape sizes and features adjustable gears based on tape pitch and component size. A homemade tape feeder like this can cost as little as 1 euro compared to commercial options at 200 euros. Video instructions are available at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsWpC6L91qo, and improvements and suggestions may be submitted for the Ultimaker challenge at http://Ultimaker.com/Challenge. For more detailed instructions, adjust the parts in OpenSCAD to fit your tape, export as STLs, print the files, assemble, and ensure a good slide fit before laser-cutting gears from POM Delrin (tm).