Vent sleeve update: Three more small parts left to print before my artificial muscle winder prototype is ready to assemble + test.
Hand-wound muscle fibers were far too inconsistent if over 3" long - slight changes in tension caused fluctuations in chirality...
Hand-wound muscle fibers were far too inconsistent if over 3" long - slight changes in tension caused fluctuations in chirality...
so on heating, the hand-wound fibers would contract in some places, expand in others.
This tool should establish uniform tension and spool up the already coiled fiber, making it possible to spin long continuous fibers.
This tool should establish uniform tension and spool up the already coiled fiber, making it possible to spin long continuous fibers.
Expecting first batch of nichrome wire (high resistance heating wire) to show up on Saturday - multiple gauges and compositions, to find the best match. Sensors / relays already on hand.
Most likely to produce in three+ phases:
1 - bare bones, button operated on/off
2 - simple ui, air volume and rate control
3 - more complete UI and sensors
4 - waveform control, etc.
No change in the sleeve itself anticipated over time, so crowdsourced production possible.
1 - bare bones, button operated on/off
2 - simple ui, air volume and rate control
3 - more complete UI and sensors
4 - waveform control, etc.
No change in the sleeve itself anticipated over time, so crowdsourced production possible.
One side note: while the print quality of the printer I obtained is decent, it's not based on open source firmware and low extruder temp can't be changed, so I may return if I can find another that can support dual extruders that isn't on backorder.
I have a week left to make that decision, so if you have any suggestions re: octoprint/repetier-friendly 3d printer *in stock stateside* for <$1200, preferably dual-extruder friendly and NOT a delta (I don't trust them after a bad experience), please let me know.
