Open Source Braiding Machine
From Open Source Ecology
Basics
- Part of the Open Source Textile Construction Set
- A device that braids together at least 3 threads/strings/ropes/wires/cables
- Is electric, and spools the cable automatically
- It can also be monitored and computer controlled
Used For
- Production of Braided Rope
- Production of Braided Wire
Industry Standards
Existing Open Source Designs
Minimum Viable Product
- Modular
- Expandable from a desktop unit to an industrial one
- Anywhere from 3 spool inserts
- Durable (CNC Cut/Milled Metal, Metal Extrusions, Durable 3D Printed Componets, and Low Friction Contact Points)
- Efficient
- Produces a Quality Product (A tight braid)
- Auto Tensioning
- Either Computer or Network Controlled (Also has basic self control (like a 3D Printer)
- Develop a dedicated software
Basic Design
Frame
- Use Aluminium T Slot Extrusions and Aluminium or Steel sheet Metal to make a square frame
- Can be made stackable
Main Mechanism
- See The first "Existing Open Source Design" to develop the mechanism
- This version will use durable parts coated in a low friction material however
- Tolerances are key to prevent wobble
- Has One (Or More) (Servo)Motor(s)
Input Spool Holders
- Similar to a FDM 3D Printder Filament Spool Holder, but with a bearing to help at high speeds
- At least 3 of these
Output Spool Holder
- Same as the "Input Spool Holder" , but larger, and with a connection to the tensioning assebly
Tensioning assembly
- Uses a combination of a (Servo?)motor, (a CNC Axis?), and possibly a load cell to coil the produced product as well as maintain and measure tension
Control Module
Power Module
- Uses DC and/or AC Power Inputs to Distribute Power to all other componets
- Connects to the IO Panel
- Also handles surge protection, and power outage detection
IO Panel
- Has the USB C DC Power In, An AC Power In, and Ethernet/USB/SD Card in
BOM
Internal Links
External Links
