Cartesian 3D Printer

This example models a Cartesian 3D printer. The model allows you to specify the rotational motion of the motor on each axis to define a printing path. In this example, the printing head moves along the edges of two letters, S and M, using the predefined rotational motions.

The printer has three linear actuators that drive the motion of the printing head along x-, y-, and z-directions. These actuators are modeled by the Lead Screw Joint blocks. The lead screw joints convert the rotational inputs to translational motions.

Model

Subsystems

The 3D printer has three degrees of freedom and consists of five subsystems: the printing bed, printer base assembly, gantry assembly, sliding block assembly, and printing head assembly. The prismatic and lead screw joints constrain the subsystems and permit movements along x-, y-, and z- axes.

Mechanics Explorer Animation

Simulation Results

This plot shows the x-, y-, and z-positions of the printing head during the printing.