Telescope Worm Drive

pinshape

Summary There are three distinct part designs here. Each one has its own merits and could be useful on its own. Motor Bracket The Motor Bracket is my first 3D design (I'm thrilled!). It requires some minor sanding to get everything to fit together properly. I need to learn how not to over-tighten things. Motor Coupler A coupler for a stepper motor to a 5/16 threaded rod is included. The rod end needs to be tapped since it has no threads (my modeling skills aren't advanced enough yet to create threads). This design is destined for my telescope mount. Pillow Blocks The pillow blocks hold skateboard bearings. The fit for the bearings is a bit loose, but the nuts keep everything in place, so all is well. Print Settings Printer: JG Aurora A3 Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: 0.1 Infill: 20% Notes: I printed the motor coupler lying down to give it the best strength when the motor is driving, despite the low torque here. How I Designed This The tricky part was getting the friction fit on the stepper motor shaft just right. I learned to use an octagonal profile to allow the shaft to fit without requiring exact tolerances. Even simple objects can teach you a thing or two when you're starting out.