RepStrap: A Bootstrap RepRap machine

aka the RepStrap machine, or making a RepRap machine from nothing.

Introduction

The purpose of the RepStrap sub-project is to build a RepRap machine without already owning a working RepRap. It involves building a simplified machine that with a little assistance is capable of producing a complete working RepRap. Once a full RepRap machine is built, the machine can then replicate and produce other useful parts. You'll also then be left with a fully functioning 3D printer.

The electronics and software are the same as a full RepRap, but the mechanics and production methods are very different. In the early development stages of RepRap, it is likely some of these same methods will be used because we're all bootstrapping to some extent at that stage.

Project Goals

• The RepStrap should be buildable by somebody with no special knowledge or expertise
• The RepStrap should only require a minimum of tools and those that are needed must be readily available around the world and be low cost
• All construction materials must be common materials that can be sourced locally in the majority of the world at low cost
• The RepStrap must be able to produce a 100% complete RepRap.

RepStrap Overview

A RepStrap, as well as a RepRap, is a collection of system components that function as a 3D printer. The system can be broken down into 3 major systems. One important thing to keep in mind as you build and design your RepStrap, is that ideally each of the systems can be interchangeable. You could drive any cartesian bot with any system of electronics and have any toolhead attached to the cartesian bot. They will all be driven with the host software.

RepStrap Systems

There are two routes to go when building a RepStrap system: You can follow a set of plans that others have done before and build a machine that is known to work. This is the easiest route, and probably the best since we are building a shared set of knowledge and expertize. We've already solved quite a few of the problems, and solutions to new problems can be shared by the entire community of builders.

These are the current RepStrap systems we have developed:

• RepStrap v1.0 "Seedling" - made mostly from pipes and lasercut acrylic. it is also fully documented and supported
• Tommelise - a wooden repstrap that uses DC servo-motors made by Forrest Higgs.
• HydraRaptor - a converted mill with custom electronics by Nophead.
• Plywood RepStraps being made by Ponoko.
• EmcRepStrap - A collection of tools intended to RepStrap an EMC controlled CNC Mill or Router.

There are probably more out there that are missing. If you would like to be included in this list, drop us a line in the forums.
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