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Unread 25-11-2013, 01:08
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VEX Robotics Engineer
AKA: Arthur Dutra IV; NERD #18
FRC #0148 (Robowranglers)
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Re: Practical 3D printed parts

In addition to the above suggestions, encoder and other sensor mounting brackets are another common use.

Also, remember that objects that are 3D printed via the FDM process (where ABS/PLC plastic spool is melted and extruded into the printed object) are weak in between the vertical layers. There are two ways to deal with this: 1) accept this and design/layout the parts with this in mind; or 2) design hybrid parts that use other parts or hardware to reinforce the 3D printed parts.

One final note: FDM process 3D printing is generally pretty slow. It might take 12-24 hours to print some parts. Some parts may actually be much faster to make via drill press/band saw/lathe/mill or purchase as COTS parts. Make sure you balance your resources. You don't want to design so many 3D printed parts that it takes 7 weeks to print them all.
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Art Dutra IV
Robotics Engineer, VEX Robotics, Inc., a subsidiary of Innovation First International (IFI)
Robowranglers Team 148 | GUS Robotics Team 228 (Alumni) | Rho Beta Epsilon (Alumni) | @arthurdutra

世上无难事,只怕有心人.