Marionette 3D Printer Replaces Linear Rails With String
The Marionette 3D printer takes a unique approach by using strings instead of linear rails. It’s a throwback to the early days of 3D printing innovation seen in the RepRap project. The printer employs two stepper motors to drive the printhead in the XY-plane, with strings keeping the mechanism in tension. The length of the strings is adjusted using an articulating pulley mechanism, ensuring precise movement across the print area.
Notably, the print bed is also suspended and constrained using strings, offering a total of six degrees of freedom. These strings connect to the sides and bottom of the bed frame and pass through pulleys to a single stepper-driven belt. While unconventional, this string-based design demonstrates an inventive approach to 3D printing mechanics, harking back to the experimental spirit of early RepRap projects.
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