Over-Engineered Pen Holder?

[@byteofblender]

I had never thought of producing PCBs like this, and I love the fact that you are finding more and more uses for the same, base frame, and still working so hard on the Hypercube as a whole. Its nearly a year since you first showed it running! Happy (almost) Birthday Hypercube!

[@joetke]

One year later this post is still pretty instructive. Thank you so much for sharing your valuable experience.

[@Arnthorg]

16:23 the felt marker polished the copper

[@Tech2C]

That makes sense, thanks.

[@deadall127]

or removed the photo-sensitive layer

[@Glensen]

deadall127 no photo sensetive layer on that pcb..

[@therealjammit]

The ink protected the copper from oxidation. The color difference is from a minute difference in an oxide layer. Try drawing half a schematic, wait an hour, and draw the second half. Clean off the ink and compare the traces.

[@deadall127]

that makes sense too :) btw, if you want to make a real pcb with this cnc+pen, you should use a plate covered with a photo sensitive layer, then expose it to UV light, then disolve the copper and finally clean the board and make the holes :3 OR simply replace the pen with a drill XD

[@aga5897]

The 'imprint' was just some cleaning of the copper surface done by the solvent that the pen has in it. Basically it the cleaner bits of copper.

[@IngoDingo]

Those videos are getting more and more higher in quality, awesome!!

[@1ilango1]

A great reuse of surplus of parts and a good design. That's what I like most. Bravo.

[@cosmicrdt]

Would love to see an attachment for cutting too. Like vinyl cutting etc. Other ideas include a paste extruder and pick and place attachments. Great videos!

[@BigyanChap]

I find it perplexing when someone's content is way better than the topic chosen.

[@victoriam586]

Two minutes in, my feeling is rails on the first one or another clamp at 90° on the second. I love how your solution took the both of best worlds, it's beautifully silly.

[@vizionthing]

I haven't etched in over two decades ... this is inspiring cheers.

[@BisdremisKostas]

plasticmodeling and pcb building was my life in early 90's , cheers :)

[@CSSIandAssociate]

It is cool some times you may want to make your own circuits. For me I have about 10 I want to make. Some might be over and over.

[@ivanvasa691]

could have put a pair of springs above the bearings, as well. Just some light compression force. More prior planning, but no worries about the rubber band breaking or anything.

[@Mobile_Dom]

eurgh this is so cool. i have no use for it, but watching it draw out the PCB traces was so cool

[@RobB_VK6ES]

In the case of the retracting ball pen. A quick and dirty hack is to put the spring on the other side of the stop on the ink tube.

[@frankcullen6942]

I’ve just made this and it works so well. Thanks for your great design.

[@kesor6]

There are LM5UU and 5mm rods available quite cheap, most probably will work just the same while reducing weight and cost.

[@f8airest]

I know what we used when I was working with cnc the pen had a secondary spring and the casing held them and the pen cartridge so the pen casing was held with a set screw still allowing for odd surfaces

[@thecreatorx3d439]

Man Ive been dying to make a blotter from my 3d printer. Love the idea of the rails, brilliant, keep making cool stuff.

[@koshus]

It looks like a breakout board with support circuitry for a Pic16F84 Micro-controller (Microchip). Cool Idea actually.

[@birdmun]

The board is just a simple dev board to make it easy to use a pic16f84a. The 16f84a is an older flash based pic chip. Microchip has a huge number of devices in their lineup.

[@Tech2C]

Ok thank you.

[@w00topia]

Very interesting, I can't wait to see what you do next :-)

[@urmommawasfun]

I was thinking, "fuck, this could be really useful!" And then I realized that I already owned a laser printer

[@dragoneyeshatesg00gle76]

especially when you put the locking bolts on the non moving part seems a no brainer to have the moving parts have the lock bolts on them

[@masar-at]

😄

[@livefognik]

When I was a kid we had write 100 times of so same stuff as punishment. This will help so many kids with that!

[@rafarafa3094]

Cool design but u really should think about some spring for example: bed spring or something similiar with less tension on other side.

[@tylergarza6632]

Use two of the C clamp styled ones in the format of the double screw clamp version, but offset them from each other so they take up the play from each other.

[@makingsense2268]

This is a lovely design. I have just purchased a little desktop CNC and, based on your design, I have ordered the linear bearings and rods from China. Now, I have a couple of months before they arrive, to draw up the holder so it all fits my gear. Since I'm a machinist, I may make the rod mountings slightly more skookum on a metal lathe. There is NO such thing as over-engineered! :-)

[@alitalalhaidar6488]

Would you, based on your "over engineered design", build a heavy duty CNC plotter, with very high accuracy, capable of drawing on A0 format? What would be the price of it? With stepper motors and Raspberry pi 5

[@minikcin5451]

Very nice, productive and worth to see video. Thanks for your effort.

[@DreitTheDarkDragon]

idea: you can add small servo to lift pen holder up instead of using Z axis. With small circuit you can use any digital pin and replace all Z lines in g-code...or if your drivers take STEP and DIR pulses on input, then (with a little better circuit) it should be simple to connect servo to board instead of Z axis driver. But I guess people won't use this so often and seriously, so waiting some extra time for Z axis movement won't be that big problem :)

[@gyrtaz]

i just shortened the the core of the pen and put the spring inside the pen on top so it can retract on pressure with very minimal wiggle :) this one is definitely over-engineered :)

[@danielgoncharov9886]

Simple and elegant. Love the design.

[@EngineeringVignettes]

This is a nice design for holding the pen. I do not know if you are looking for other ideas... If you are then may I suggest a solder paste dispenser attachment? For a hint, look at Dave's (not going to mention his KZbin channel out of politeness but it's that self-described crazy Aussie bloke) latest unboxing video where he got an automated SMD dispensing pen. An adapter for that on the Hypercube would allow the finished PCB to go back on the printer for placing the solder; this is an alternate to using a paste mask. AFAIK, I have not seen a 3D printer being used to dispense paste before. Oh, and the pen can also be used as a pick-n-place head, for placing SMT parts... but this requires a lot more gear to go onto the 3D printer. Just putting it out there as possible future extensions on the printer. Cheers, - Eddy

[@Meddlmoe]

the version with the screws work, by using a square opening istead of a round one. the sqare is split along its diagonal

[@rabbitslayer1831]

Turning a 3d printer into a 2d printer! Wait...

[@cirrus820]

Hi, nice video again. At the moment I'm using the toner transfer method to develop pcb's. But this technique seems much cleaner. The thing I noticed is that all video's using the direct ink to pcb method create pretty coarse traces. It would be interesting to see if it's possible to create for example 0.5 pitch traces with a finer marker. Maybe it's an idea to use a coarse pen like the 0.6 for copper pours and a finer one for the traces. Maybe this needs a dual pen setup, if replacing the pen mid process would mess up the alignment.

[@KennethScharf]

Might be less weight on the moving part if the 8mm rods moved and the linear bearings were clamped to the mount.

[@Mickice]

These videos always impress.

[@yussefyuzi6512]

the example circuit that you used was Designed for a 2-sided pcb

[@adithyafpv]

Just add a spring inside the pen at the top side and cut the refill tube a bit at the top and it will do the same job and literally you don't need to scratch your head anymore.

[@nishantsinghchandra]

When I press x plus, plotter moves diagonally. Same for y axis. On pressing diagonal arrows, it moves in one direction.

[@arturslab7102]

Great video. However all those unnecessary pen lifts would annoy me. i wonder if there's a way to filter them out of final G code

[@misan2006]

You are not alone. Yes there are tools for that like xyzbots.com/gcode-optimizer/ but this tool assumes G0 motion in between G1 drawing sections, plus I am not sure it can remove unneeded up and downs.

[@Tech2C]

I agree the code could be more efficient, but the entire drawing took 4 minutes, so saving an extra minute or 2 really isn't a big deal.

[@makingsense2268]

Yep; learn a bit of G-code (it really isn't that hard), then use a regular expression search-and-replace in your text editor. Done like dinner.

[@brianboni4876]

16:21 I think it's just polished from the friction of the pen tip.

[@MOOTech]

You should make a version that accepts the standard brass bushings as well!

[@z1power]

It would be interesting if you created a carriage mount that used neodymium magnets instead of screws for quick replacement

[@MrBrettito]

Awesome! Would love to see a recreated version customized for the Prusa Mini

[@spikekent]

In a word ... Genius.

[@M_a_r_ke]

you need the locking mechanism placed on a rail that moves in the direction you require

[@yyh1002]

Did you check out the magnetic tool changer for Ultimaker? You could apply a similar idea to Hypercube for dual extrusion and tools.

[@Tech2C]

That is a very smart design.

[@cine_motard]

Next video on tech2c... Hypercube cnc milling machine for pcb making?!?!? :D Btw. LOVE the hypercube design!! Just started building one too!! Just waiting for the rest of the parts to arrive, and printing one of the last parts out on my fabrikator mini at the moment! :)

[@4ruitz]

bruh I straight up used a design that was opened and doesn't need to be locked in place, only with a few rubber bands which help it flex , the whole mech is also held in place with rubber bands whcih allow it to move up and down only.

[@ToxTox]

Hope you plan to make a milling attachment.

[@Tech2C]

Maybe... (yep)

[@bradmartin6591]

its a good thing we invented the printer....

[@Username47948]

this is the correct amount of engineering.

[@marcosmata8233]

I wish they had multicolor pen for the xy plotters

[@jeromecirconflexe8058]

With two bearings that looks a bit overconstrained, it could probably be made simpler (and lighter, and less expensive, and more precise) with only one linear bearing.

[@mheermance]

It's an impressive pen holder.

[@PracticalProjects]

great design and application :)

[@giacomopamio1191]

he be rollin down the street he be rollin to the beat

[@jasoneyes01]

I'm still waiting for the 5 axis cnc machine head attachment.

[@Tech2C]

We can't skip experimenting with a 4th axis initially... :)

[@home_Grown_studio]

Do you prefer Etch vs Engrave cutting the board away? All though both effective methods I personally thing engrave looks better and no need for mixing a solution

[@squuzcentral15]

Have you looked about the concept of a vee block and clamp as used by machinists? Bill

[@Tech2C]

Now that may have solved the play issues with circular pens! Thanks for sharing!

[@myonlynick]

phenomenal DIY work.

[@silverhead8243]

Perfect design.

[@tinusblaauw4092]

I always love these videos. What do you use to design your parts? Software I mean. The printed samples are excellent in your videos!

[@Tech2C]

Up until recently I was using Cubify Design, but here I'm using Fusion360.

[@tinusblaauw4092]

Awesome stuff! Is it possible I can send you a private message too? I have a weird problem of with my 3D printer with regards to my Z off-set? Also, will be building my own HyperCube soon, can't wait! :)

[@zztchannel8923]

I used duct tape...

[@Tech2C]

Are you MacGyver :P

[@darkwinter6028]

Tech2C or a mythbuster?

[@NekoTheCatgirl]

i used my hand

[@edgardeharo529]

Jacob Flink q

[@cricrisuper4676]

...and I used the Force...

[@Veptis]

Why use linear rails and bearings. You could do one or two or L axis rails printed I a single for piece. The friction won't be a problem.

[@jackcallinan2650]

perfect for writing christmas cards

[@txm100]

Why not make a longer or just two clamps to hold the pen? That thin plastic is is still wobbly.

[@kyrylldmytrenko8996]

Amazing, thank you for sharing!

[@benjaminhock215]

You probably could've printed the lm8uu's and the rods?

[@b03tz]

Benjamin Hock did that, kinda thing:2895348 Not actually bearings but same principle

[@chafikchaf5827]

Hi thanks for sharing your work i love whate you do , i have a question about a GRBL ; is it possible to change or add somme subroutines to that code , for example reading a sensor value and send it back to the UGS, thanks in advance.

[@ufohunter3688]

Milling heads are too noisy, heavy and vibrate a lot. Can you not install a laser head strong enough to vaporize the single layer of copper, but light enough to be manipulated by the x-axis?

[@rs4race]

did you finish the PCB? I'm really interested to see the rest of the process.

[@matthewpengelly8494]

Couldn't this be done using a single 3d printed part that clamps onto the pen and is designed with a flexible cantilever from the carriage to the pen clamp? That way it can flex enough to do the job of the linear bearings, rails, and spring in 1 part.

[@raindogred]

thanks I found this really usefull. I recently bought have stepcraft cnc, and can modify this concept to fit my machine (in due time when my skill levels rise). I'm not familiar with the Hypercube. I was surprised that you didn't talk about drilling NC files. To my way of thinking the real benefit of using cnc to make home made pcb is that you can quickly and accurately drill all those holes.trying to get an idea of the process. Wondering if you would drill the holes first and then, use one of the holes as a registration point for plotting pen..so that everything aligns??

[@joachimfriberg]

How about that design for the E3D design. To allow the head to be "touch-enabled bedleveling" like the roblox?

[@Tech2C]

That's an interesting idea!

[@joachimfriberg]

Tech2C i have a prototype in Onshape if you are interested.

[@Fareke2]

Maybe i want play in those axes if i want to print handwriting so every letter is litlebit different

[@vehasmaa]

I wonder if one could use kicad as source for pcb to be cnverted..

[@JamieBainbridge]

Did you always intend to use the HyperCube for these pen/laser/milling CNC designs you're doing now, or is this a fairly recent idea?

[@Tech2C]

Recent. During the HyperCube build log series I just wanted a better printer. Earlier this year I released a video called "Draw with your 3D Printer!" which is when the CNC idea came about.

[@HokeySchtick]

Now you need to drill the holes in the board. That's more work than just drawing. You need another quick connect for a Dremel or somesuch.

[@test-tone-girl]

Awesome video!!

[@247chiranjeevi]

can i use Kicad instead of eagle? its a free open source software for PCB design. Thanks for the very nice video!

[@EvilDaveCanada]

How much more difficult would it be to use the print head from an inkjet printer and just use only one(1) nozzle for printing. There are now some reasonably inexpensive inkjet printers on the market that use a separate ink tank and transfers the ink through a very small tube similar to how some 3D printers melt the filament far from the print head thus reducing weight at the actual point of printing.

[@girrrrrrr2]

i wonder if adding a BL touch would help this at all... im guessing not.

[@muggzzzzz]

Did you use your latest 3D-printer to print these outstandingly looking details? Did you do acetone vapour smoothing?

[@Tech2C]

All printed on the HyperCube. Link is in the description. These plastic parts are PLA printed at 0.2mm.

[@km5405]

how about a iris-style variable width guide bearing? ;D

[@StepDub]

Wrap some tape around the thinner pens.

[@del7o]

You see a pen holder. I see a projectile launcher

[@kevinlumoindong3498]

is lasercut going to bee too heavy ?

[@Tech2C]

Not with diode lasers, they are small and light enough.

[@martinpiros14]

Why dont you put springs over the two rods?

[@rljzathras]

I'm intrigued by the scale factor for "to mm" in the HPGL to G code converter. HPGL units are usually thou, and there are 39.37 thou/mm, not 40.2? (1000thou / 25.4mm) Is this to compensate for a subtle scaling factor in the 3d printer?

[@brandonshirey1353]

"To allow spring" Why not just install springs on the rods? I'm assuming the lack of springs is why but it would have been 10x better if you had.

[@michaelbarakat6095]

If you enjoyed this video !! are you series ..... absolutely i have enjoyed this video also i like your clear explanation Thank you for your time and keep updating the cube 😉😎😎

[@neekniggit3606]

So if you can make, I am assuming, a 3D printer work as a plotting machine, could you take say a 4300 Dremel rotor tool and make it a CNC machine?

[@Tech2C]

Yep :)

[@carloslema5400]

Purely genius. Can I use the same principle for a Micro Electric Hand Drill for PCBs? Rotating tool anyone?

[@JohnKnutsson]

What pen is that exactly? Good video!

[@Tech2C]

Staedtler Lumocolor permanent pen 318-3

[@slanwar]

Which software you use? I built the openbuild Acro CNC and I removed the laser and I will install your pen holder, I like the idea when the pen hits the paper I have _on my case_ 2 springs, anyway I tried a few software and so far none of them captivate me

[@MilanPotterSmith]

love it man Great idea haha

[@epoxi]

Next time use a OSS EDA, like Kicad ;)

[@ericbeckers2673]

Excellent!

[@paulmunro3050]

This could also hold a vinyl drag knife :)

[@paulmunro3050]

@@-______-______- this comment was 3yrs ago bud

[@picklenugget3891]

Why are people downgrading 3-d printers to 2-d printers. I don't get it?

[@ciarfah]

Builddrafter2121 usually for PCB etching

[@darkshadowsx5949]

To unlock new crafting recipes of course. would you rather build a whole new machine just for pcb/drawing, or save money and just swap out the carriage head? I have recently built a large cnc machine I will be using for drawing/milling/3d carving/ laser cutting, and the occasional PCB. i already have a 3d printer but the build area is tiny in comparison. it would cost me $3000+ easily to build dedicated machines for each application. not to mention take up way more room than i have. only spent $500 to build this one machine.

[@IH1940HAY]

Is it possible to order the finished linear bearing pen holder