Solidoodle 3 & similar Z-axis antiwobble nut cage V1 3D model preview
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About this 3D model

I've seen many other people’s setup to eliminate Z-wobble, but it just seemed like it could be better. I’ve devised a “cage” for a 5/16”-18 hex nut that has 4 degrees of freedom (X/Y translational, X/Y rotational) to compensate for Z-wobble and a locker for backlash. This is done by 2 different methods. The first is the actual holder for the nut. It is curved to allow the nut to swivel in the X/Y axis while not rotating on the Z axis. It rests on 2 other layers that give it independent X/Y translation. If only 1 layer was used for both, it would have excess clearance to rotate on the Z axis so translation distance would have to be small or the rotational freedom would be too great and layer height would be inconsistent. The second is with the nut locker. This setup does not require any springs since the nut locker applies pressure against the nut to prevent backlash and unwanted Z axis translation. It does this by exploiting the flexible property of thin wall materials. **Update:** I'm researching some new ideas and will post another version of this that will work better. I don't have an estimate of when this will be done. **Update:** So what I plan to do is use something similar to a CV joint. I will probably use unlubricated stainless steel bearings. A nylon filament will be recommended for it's low friction coefficient. **Update:** I ended up replacing the stock 5/16"-18 rod with an M5 rod from ebay. I suggest doing the same and using my anti-backlash setup. Works incredibly well.