3D modeling — rotating bed and frame

Before getting into the CAD and technical aspect of the project, I started by researching and getting a general overhead of how 5-axis 3D printers works and its internal mechanisms. Unlike an orthodox 3D printer, a 5-axis 3D printer utilizes two extra rotational axes that allow the print bed or print head to rotate and tilt. This helps remove the need for support as the printer can print from multiple directions.

There are two types of 5-axis printers:

1. Non-planar printing, which prints curved layers.

2. Multidirectional printing, which rotates the part and prints from different angles.

For my 5-axis printer, I’m choosing the multidirectional approach as it’s easier in terms of hardware, more stable, and less susceptible to noise and vibrations that would cause discrepancies. After completing my research, I began modeling the printer in Fusion 360. I created the aluminum extrusion frame, designed the base for the rotating print bed and imported a stepper motor model (NEMA 17) to begin planning the rotation mechanism for the print bed. These models will serve as the foundation for adding the bearings, shafts, and tilting mechanism in the next stage of the project.