Plastic X-Idler Plate to replace Wood Parts

[PyramidDave]

Before I take my printer apart to test the plastic X-Motor Mount, it just seemed to make sense to work on the X-Idler plate also, especially since most of the hole patterns are the same. I had some nice suggestions on the design of the X-motor, so thought I would post a photo of the X-Idler model to see if anyone has some ideas for enhancements to this. I just made it as a simple plate, but could add a little reinforcement to it along the top or middle. I followed the same curve design as I used on the X-motor mount design. I will probably add another hole to the upper right as well.
X-IdlerPlate_rev1.jpg

[PyramidDave]

Does anyone know what that small hole at bottom center of the X-Idler plate is for? Does anyone use that hole for some purpose?

[printbus]

Does anyone know what that small hole at bottom center of the X-Idler plate is for? Does anyone use that hole for some purpose?

Don't know of anyone who has used it. When I built my i3v-8, I figured it might have originally been for a screw to be used with the original Z-endstop switch, similar to the screw on the Y-bed used with the Y-endstop. It's not in the right position for even that, but that's the best I could come up with.

[AbuMaia]

If you're making it to be paired with the X motor plate, then I'd add the strengthening "welds" you used on the X motor plate, even if they're not needed for strength. Just decorative to make them look similar.

And I'd make it more symmetrical. What's that notch in the bottom right for?

[PyramidDave]

That notch on my version was used to add the Z-endstop adjustable bolt. While I am at this, I should upgrade this to something newer. What type of adjustable Z-endstop are most people using now? I see at least a couple of different ones on thingiverse. Here are the ones that I found. http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:545105 and this one, http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:321810 I have added the extra welds & will take out that little bolt hole & notch.IMG_7863_800x600.jpg

[PyramidDave]

Here is the latest image of the X-Idler Plate design.X-IdlerPlate_rev3.jpg

[sniffle]

You've got that coming along nicely! whats left? Y wooden pieces, a Display holder, and the main Frame and supports?

well done sir... we'll be printing i3V's before you know it :-P I am really hoping the Main frame comes out stronger and lighter than the wooden one :-) I'll be printing everything and revuilding my printer from scratch if you keep this up...

[PyramidDave]

I am working on a one piece LCD holder also and 1st test print of that was close, but the circuit board was a little tight. My reason for doing the LCD panel was to see if I could mount the raspberry PI on its side with power cord pointing down & mounted behind the LCD panel. I will probably get back to some of my other projects after these are finished.

[AbuMaia]

My Z endstop is on the X carriage for ABL.

[PyramidDave]

I changed this to match the similar style change I did for the X-motor taking out the upper & lower right holes. This also leaves the notch in the lower left for those using the notch for the z-endstop micro adjust like I am. This symmetry is carried to the upper right so it does not really look like a notch anymore. The ledge on the outer top & bottom start on that curve about 6.5mm above & below the alum. extrusion so it should miss the X-limit switch for those that have it still on that side like I do. Here is a photo of the current design. I hope to print it today.X-IdlerPlate_rev8.jpg