Y motor mount torsion box for Prusa simplified Mendel

thingiverse

As of January 3, 2012, the machine has been functioning optimally (refer to picture). I plan to incorporate this system in all future designs. It is compatible with belts up to 10 mm wide. This project is part of an audit evaluating the current Mendel structure for its lack of stiffness in certain components. The goal is to develop a superior Mendel while maintaining moderate plastic (27 + 16 grams) and Vitamin usage. Feedback, contributions, and design modifications are welcome. The torsion box mount aims to: 1) eliminate flexion in the Y-axis motor's mount and improve parallelism between the pulley and belt, 2) provide support for the Y-axis pulley on both ends, reducing stress on stepper motor bearings, and 3) enhance belt tensioning capabilities, increasing stiffness, precision, and combating backlash. The design utilizes a single 28x12x8 bearing initially but has been updated to two bare 608 bearings side by side. The internal box dimensions measure 16 mm wide, accommodating an idler and washers. Adrian's mods DXF serves as the starting point for this design. An X-axis modification is planned soon. Printing instructions are straightforward, with a vitamin aluminum machined pulley from eBay used in the original design (determining the bearing diameter). Customized printed pulley designs or different types of bearings can be adopted, but it's crucial to check clearances with individual setups. The print settings include 4 solid layers, 3 extra shells, and 60% infill in a hexagonal pattern. Secure the components by slipping into place, adding washers if necessary, bolting on, and fastening nuts onto M8 threaded rods before re-tensioning the belt. Enjoy the improved performance!