RoboFork - Completely 3D Printed Robot Forklift!*

thingiverse

Introducing RoboFork, a completely 3D printed remote-controlled forklift designed for easy printing with no need for supports.* This project started as a personal endeavor that has since been adapted for general use instead of meeting specific needs. RoboFork is optimized for effortless 3D printing. Its powerful yet compact DC motors drive four wheels, providing enough power to transport heavier objects around the room than typical two-motor designs. The forklift's mechanism is entirely 3D printed, including a central threaded rod that connects to another DC motor capable of lifting and lowering the forks. I personally tested the weight limit with two Samsung A5 phones, but ran out of phones to continue testing :P This suggests that RoboFork can lift much more. The movable frame features another thread that allows it to move up and down along the rod. It fits snugly inside the main forklift frame, which has dedicated gaps for the movable frame. The main forklift frame is secured with two Ø2mm screws and a nut on the other side. The threaded rod holder can be either hot-glued or secured with screws (Ø2mm with nut). The main frame requires no supports and prints quickly, featuring numerous holes for extensions and pre-made holes for Arduino Due. It's very sturdy and has been personally tested with PLA plastic. Pre-made holes are available for the motor, cable management, and the forklift. Motors are secured with screws included in the box. Forks can be secured with glue or existing holes used to secure them with screws (Ø2mm with nut). This project was designed for fun and is meant to be customized as desired. The forklift module can be removed and a custom module mounted, allowing for experimentation. This presents an excellent opportunity for educators to demonstrate the functionality of 3D printed forklift mechanisms and/or teach how to program such robots so they can be driven with your phone or dedicated remote controller. It's very affordable (around $6 for motors & any Arduino can be used) and prints quickly. Thanks for reading, and have fun operating RoboFork! :D *Supports vary from printer to printer; test prints on FlashForge dreamer using settings below did not require supports.