RoBo3D R1 Solenoid Auto-Leveling

thingiverse

This is a set of instructions for upgrading a Robo3D 3D printer with an auto-leveling feature that uses a solenoid to move the z-probe up and down. The upgrade requires some soldering and modification to the firmware. Here's how you can do it: **Hardware Requirements** * An 1N4004 diode * A 100ohm resistor (for an LED, but the author uses a diode) * A step-down power converter You will need these components if your Robo3D printer is equipped with 5/16" rods or M8 rods. **Software Requirements** * Firmware modification files provided by the author for download * The author has made modifications to configuration.h in the firmware. * Modification also requires addition of lines of code in pins.h Instructions: 1. Load new firmware and set values as recommended. The final modified value of the pin definition should be: #define Z_PROBE_PIN 63 // IO pin, 5v, extend and retract touch probe Add it at this position (as noted): ``` define SDPOWER -1 define SDSS 53 #define LED_PIN 13 #endif if MOTHERBOARD == 33 || MOTHERBOARD == 35 || MOTHERBOARD == 67 || MOTHERBOARD == 68 define FAN_PIN 9 // (Sprinter config) ``` Add a new static void block like this, right at the end of configuration.h. static void engage_z_probe(int d = 100) { //lower z probe digitalWrite(Z_PROBE_PIN, HIGH); delay(d); } static void retract_z_probe(int d = 100) { // raise z probe digitalWrite(Z_PROBE_PIN, LOW); delay(d); } Comment out the following in pins.h void engage_probing(); void disengage_probing(); 2. Save the new code. 3. Load it onto your SD card. You should have your autoleveling functionality activated at this point. It is suggested that you go through configuration.h and make a note of every change you need to apply in the new version. This will help avoid any mistakes. 4. Now that we've established that the hardware upgrade was completed correctly, all that's left is setting your z probe offset, if not done automatically during firmware install. Here are how to find Z offset value: 5. In the terminal: 6. Type: g28 (all axis home command). Make sure printer is still level when entering command. 7. type M568 s Z (example for .56). 8. Now press enter, this sets the new value of Z. 9. G29 to enable autolevel. 10. Wait until you see your bed surface reflected by z height map that follows below G29 prompt. With these simple steps and minor soldering, we should have an updated auto level capability for our Robo3d!