User:Alienmike

I have built a standard plastic 3d printer, but am currently working on the design of a Open Source 3d metal printer. I am hoping to find like minded people here in this community that are interested in the build of a metal 3d Printer. If you are interested in designing and building a metal 3d Printer, that can print using sintered steel powder, please contact me at my email address below.

I am fluent in the use of FreeCAD and am currently making FreeCAD files for the GoodEnough Hybrid CNC. Although the instructions (GoodEnoughCNC) gives are detailed and complete, they are using metric sized tubing which is difficult to source locally. So, I am slightly redesigning the Hybrid CNC to use Imperial sized steel tubing, which is readily available here locally in the USA. I will use the CNC machine for multiple projects I have planned, but specifically need it for building the CEB press and for my 3d Metal Printer. Since the Hybrid CNC is open sourced, I do plan to release all of my work and build diary to the community.

My main interest is for agricultural uses. I have completed a Permaculture Design Course and have recently purchased 5 acres of land to begin my Permaculture project. My current plans are to build a CEB Press and associated power cube.

Skills

• Computer programming. Languages include C/C++, Java, Python. My skill level is advanced.
• Computer networking and administration. I only use Linux, and have not used a Microsoft Windows based computer in over 10 years. My skill level is advanced.
• Web Development. Primary platform I use for web development is Drupal. My skill level is advanced.
• Electronics. I have designed and built some small circuits, mostly dealing with solar power inverters. My skill level is intermediate.
• Welding. I have done some minor welding this past summer (2016) with a MIG welder. My skill level is novice.
• Machining. It has been years since I took machine shop in college, but I do know the basics. My skill level is beginner.
• Legal. I currently work as a Paralegal in the State of California. Most of my work involves Estates and Trusts, but I am also very knowledgeable about corporate structures and contract law. My skill level is high.

Background

Over a decade ago, I started a website called Open Engineering (openeng.org, no longer related to me) with the goal of creating a community of people dedicated to creating open source hardware designs. However, I was unable to garner the necessary interest, and the project died. Looking back, I feel my failure was due to two primary causes. First, I failed to inspire people with specific projects that would excite and inspire, as Open Source Ecology is doing now. Second, the Open Source tools simply did not exist at that time. I think the interest barrier has largely been breached, thanks to the work of people like Marcin Jakubowski. However, I still feel that we are lacking many of the basic software tools that we need to create a truly collaborative community. That said, there are now open source CAD systems, and the revolution of 3d printers has opened the minds of many doubters. I again have hope that this dream can be realized.

If you are interested in contacting me, please email me at CrosiarCM@Yahoo.com.