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Re: 3d printers and robots
We do not use ours too much (as per what I know). We do, once in a while, print a CAD Model of our entire robot. However, I think that 3D Printing is quite a great idea for FRC Robotics. ABS is very strong, strong enough for many heavily-used things. It also makes a great substitute to going to the shop to find the exact part. However, the technology has tremendous areas of improvement required. The resolution is not good enough for many applications where absolute accuracy is required. Also, the process is slow. The ABS is also dangerous. If it goes through too much stress and catches on fire, three toxic vapors are released, CO2, CO and HCN. A 3D Printer is just a very expensive injection moulding system that doesn't require a mould. I came up with the idea of a 3D printed stirling engine, running backwards, to test my design. After some research, this idea has been erased because of danger.
In Short: Do not use 3D printing in high friction or heat. Do not set alight on fire, and only use it where you know it will work. A milled aluminum piece will work way better.
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