3D Printer (SLA)

One of the challenges identified with my FFF 3D printer is it's ability to create very small objects (see the post on miniatures). Having an interest in making small things (game pieces, control knobs etc.) led some friends and I to research and build a Digital Light Projection, Stereo Lithography printer (DLP-SLA). The concept is quite simple: similar to FFF printers DLP-SLA devices build the object in layers. However, with DLP-SLA the layers are not melted plastic. Instead they are liquid resin cured hard via the UV (Ultra-Violet) light present in an image projected for the layer. Just as it is for turning many ideas into reality and prototyping inventions, the FFF printer proved very valuable in making parts for the SLA device. Please read the blog posts to learn more about the journey taken building this printer. The build was started mid-January of 2015.

This printer was built around salvaged and spare parts including Rexroth-Bosch 45x45 extruded aluminum and a lead screw/motor from some unknown apparatus. The FFF printer was used to make brackets and gussets as well as parts for a flex-vat.

The projector is below the vat of resin so the object is built upside-down from it's base to it's top (bottom-up build design.).

Here is a photo of the printer at or near the completion of it's construction: