Hey! This thing is still a Work in Progress.
Files, instructions, and other stuff might change!
Printable linear bearing
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Published on August 19, 2011
Description
Inspired by the above thing, I wanted to try a linear bearing made using airsoft balls.
reprap.org/wiki/Printable_linear_bearing
The linear-2.2 (same has 2.1 but closed) have a bit of friction (because the balls don't make a loop) but it works (25mm long x 23,41mm ext diam)
Video : youtu.be/GTtfGQe4o7o
reprap.org/wiki/Printable_linear_bearing
The linear-2.2 (same has 2.1 but closed) have a bit of friction (because the balls don't make a loop) but it works (25mm long x 23,41mm ext diam)
Video : youtu.be/GTtfGQe4o7o
Instructions
You can either put the balls inside while it's printing, or after with a plier, pressing gently to push them inside.
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Corwin
on
August 23, 2011
said:
Very cool. I notice that you have a circular cross-section on your races. I found working on mine that you get significantly less friction by designing the race to have only 2 points of contact on a ball when it is pressed against the rail/rod. A triangular/diamond shaped cross section could give you smoother motion if you're not satisfied with the amount of friction you're currently getting.
watsdesign
on
August 23, 2011
said:
Thanks, and you're right, I'll try something like that !
The latests I made have justly a teardrop or hexagonal shape, at first it was to print the "U" that will close the loop and the bottom of the bearing, and then I noticed it was also giving only two-point of contact for the balls :)
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More from watsdesign
Your U shape is the right idea. The linear bearings I have cycle balls around an oval circle path, only half of which contacts the rod. kinda like the rolling a block on logs where you keep adding a log from the back to the front, as the block rolls by. The rod rolls by and the bearings are cycled back around for another usage via the oval. it's awesome you're making this.