This week I worked with the other members of the archshop to make a machine that writes on a toilet paper roll. As part of the group I designed the CAD to link the linear and rotary actuator in Fusion360. For this process, I redesigned the piece that the TAs included as the foot for the linear actuator, and after aligning the roll under the linear actuator I designed a way to fix the rotary actuator to another metal extrusion. I also added more holes for more possible heights for the linear actuator where the pen would be attached. It was a good learning experience for me because I really had to think about the fasteners and assembly, especially because I knew that I would likely be unable to meet with the people who were assembling in-person.
Screenshot from one of the drafted CAD drawings
At first there were a couple issues as other people were also working on the design of the structure, and our parts were not fitting together correctly in the CAD because we were all working independently. The best way to resolve this problem was working together in-person, so, I met with Z Chen in person to finish the CAD, as we were both working on some structural elements such that the machine could be free-standing. We designed this aspected to be CNC'd, and I included a small part to be 3D-printed. More details about the process can be found on the group page, but this was my focus for the week.
