Well now that I've got your attention, I hope some of you can help me out here. I've taken on a few projects involving 3D printing lately, however, most of them do not include electronics. I have a relative that is looking to have me make a "Transformers Birthday Cake" similar to the one here:
[
www.youtube.com]
More info on his blog: [
russellmunro.blogspot.com.au]
Although he has offered plenty, and I mean plenty of info on his build, I will be primarily starting from scratch. This project is still in the very early stages, however, I feel like I will be able to take care of the mechanical design. The trouble is, I need to know which electronics I should use (and why). In relation to most people on this board familiar with in depth electronic development, I would be considered a novice. I am familiar with most components, terms, etc, most of my issues are related to which boards/drivers/software I should use to drive the electronic components.
Goals;
- Somewhat small budget considering it's going to be a one-time use birthday cake ($100 on components?). The cheaper, the better
- Possibly a double throw switch, where the transformer would be in it's "resting state" vs. the "transformed state".
- 3D printing most, if not all parts besides the electronics and hardware necessary.
So, onto the bullet pointed questions;
- For moving components, I forsee a use for motors of some sort. Should I use stepper motors? If so, once sized, how do I choose an adequate controller to prevent it from being a firey birthday mess?
- Which boards, motor controllers, drivers, should I be looking into? I would assume overkill by a slight amount is not a bad idea, again this would be to prevent any overloading.
- Hypothetically speaking, if I were to integrate some sort of linear actuator or solenoid, can these boards control that?
As always, I would like to thank you all for your input, both professional and experienced views. I'm sure I've left out some info, however any and all information/comments/questions/concerns are very much appreciated.
Thank you!
-Pat
- "Project Locus" - Mostly all printed parts, Corexy, Bowden Setup, 12x12 heatbed, ~1 cubic foot build volume
- SeeMeCNC Rostock Max V2