OpenSCAD Roller Pinion Rack Profile
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Published on February 25, 2012
Description
Apparently there's this great thing out there for linear motion called a roller pinion. It has all of the advantages of a rack and pinion for simplicity, but it'also precise, has low backlash,is efficient, and quiet.
I spent some time trying to figure out how to derive the profile. I believe I'm really close to the right profile. I'm hoping others can help me make it a real thing.
It would be nice to use these for anything that needs precise linear movement.
I'm thinking that for the rollers you could use smooth rod and some brass tubing from a hobby store (for bushings).
Here is some of my reference material.
ecnmag.com/articles/2011/07/hardware-corner/roller-pinion-tech/
nexengroup.com/nxn/files/pdf/966650s.pdf
I spent some time trying to figure out how to derive the profile. I believe I'm really close to the right profile. I'm hoping others can help me make it a real thing.
It would be nice to use these for anything that needs precise linear movement.
I'm thinking that for the rollers you could use smooth rod and some brass tubing from a hobby store (for bushings).
Here is some of my reference material.
ecnmag.com/articles/2011/07/hardware-corner/roller-pinion-tech/
nexengroup.com/nxn/files/pdf/966650s.pdf
Instructions
No instructions provided.
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i-make-robots
on
February 26, 2012
said:
Try to make a section of the rack with ends like a jigsaw puzzle so they can be slotted together for precision placement. You'll also want a printable dist with holes for aligning the tubes. Better yet, print a lantern pinion at the right size to match the rack. Don't forget to put a hole for a set screw to attach the pinion to the motor shaft.
I hope your code makes it easy to customize:
- number of rollers
- size of rollers
- diameter of pinion
- diameter of pinion center shaft (for motors)
and sizes the rack accordingly. For added challenge, try a circular rack. (the pinions get really fun.)
License
OpenSCAD Roller Pinion Rack Profile by dammitcoetzee is licensed under the Attribution - Creative Commons license.
More from dammitcoetzee
For the rollers, maybe take apart some roller chain (motorcycle chain). It has an inner shaft and outer roller perfectly sized.