2014/12/29

Kossel Mini Z-Probe Holder

Let me start by saying that the Think3DPrint3D Kossel Mini Kit is really fantastic. The documentation is pretty good and it took just three long evenings to get me to my first print. I first expected to finish the kit much quicker, but I have to admit that I underestimated a couple of tasks that are not that obvious before you start - including preparation of the printed parts.

The one thing that almost prevented a successful build was a lack of concentration on my side combined with a couple of photos that are hiding one critical detail of the Z-probe holder. The documentation is telling you to "clear out the groove" and this is what I did.


As you can clearly tell from the STL file: I accidentally cleared out the section that is needed for the retraction of the Z-probe to work.
https://github.com/jcrocholl/kossel/blob/master/retractable.stl

All this left me with a printer that did not print and I had two options: Either ask someone to print a replacement part for me or come up with some kind of quick fix.I finally resulted to using an old CD to create a part that can be placed between the micro switch and the original holder.


Once I installed this quick and dirty fix and I got the printer ready to print I wanted to replace the holder. For obvious reasons I did not quite like the original part. After a couple of iterations this is what I came up with.
https://github.com/fredvj/Kossel-Mini/blob/master/Z-Probe/Z-Probe-holder.stl

Not only does it give you a clearer indication of what the groove is and what not. The placement of the spring will prevent it from blocking the probe when you want to release it.



If you do have a M2.5 x 6 socket cap-screw you probably want to replace the 12 mm screw used on the original part to fix the spring.If not - the longer one will work just fine.