Mark Peng
Goal:
Create a 3D printer for teaching users about the basics of laser SLA printing while encouraging users to experiment with new resins, and slicing algorithm. This printer would be an affordable way for makers to print wax resin and utilize investment casting for their projects.
Concept:
Build a laser 3D SLA printer that prints via standard gcode. Have full access to laser setting so I can experiment with different resins. Standard gcode allows user to examine toolpath. This also allows for high resin compatibility which is important for wax resin as those are some of the most difficult and expensive resin to print.
Laser: 405nm 150mw UV laser with a spot size of 70 micron
Build Volume: 13 x 13 x 18cm
Printer Size (Built): 25 x 25 x 63cm
Processor: ST 32bit ARM processor
Print file format: Accepts Gcode
Software: Tested Cura 2.3.1 + Autodesk Print Studio
Video:
Laser Galvo setup
More details to be added soon
Field Test:
Build test at Maker Place in San Diego:
23b Space in Fullerton, CA
More detail yet to come.
I am guessing they probably had the same problem controlling precision and consistency as me. There is little or no real documents on Galvo drivers, if there is - you have to buy the ones for thousands of dollars, and probably spend maybe a year studying the circuitry to get it down.
The common economy Galvo boards do the trick for a fun little light show, but are time consuming and involved when it comes to dialing in the motors and boards, aligning everything to a laser precision.