I'm working on a fairly large 3D printer from scratch, using primarily Actobotics parts from ServoCity.com. The frame is made using aluminum channel and tubing. The design for this printer has a stationary printing surface, so the extruder will be able to move in all 3 dimensions. I want to use a PIC32 processor for this project, so I'll likely be porting one of the many open-source 3D printer firmwares onto this platform.
I put in the order for the rest of the parts I need. This consisted of mostly more screws, but also a few 90 angle pieces, 1/4 inch rods, and contact switches. Here's another angle of progress so far:
​Roughly 80% of the parts came in today for the build. I will add a parts list to this project soon. I made a few miscalculations, not the least of which was buying too few screws! I'll put in another order this week and hopefully have the frame built up within the next few weeks. Beyond that, I'm waiting for ServoCity to release their stepper motor mounts, at which point I'll purchase the stepper motors and motor controllers. I'm recording the whole build-up, so once it is complete I'll upload a time-lapse video of the construction.
Id like to see this finished. It was the first thing i though off when I saw these being sold at Sparkfun.
How does the cost compare to just buying it of the shelf?
Any update on your project ? I wish to build something like yours and wondering how it goes for you. Thanks.