The SimFeedback-AC DIY Motion Simulator thread

[sjb266]

Hey guys. Thought I’d create a thread for those taking the plunge into this brilliant DIY project..
I will be starting mine soon and I know there are others thinking about it.. so feel free to share your knowledge and experiences so we can all enjoy this platform to its full potential. A huge thanks to the developers who have really knocked this one out of the park!

Website: https://opensfx.com/2019/02/20/welcome-to-our-new-site/

Github: https://github.com/SimFeedback/SimFeedback-AC-Servo/wiki

For all the internals for the actuator contact Amy - skye@ntl-bearing.com
She can supply everything you need. Just remind her you want the ends of the shafts chamfered and make sure she sends the right sized ball screw - we have had a couple of issues reported. She is very helpful though and the cost is pretty good.


Huge thanks to @RowanH for writing a comprehensive user guide which can be accessed here - https://www.rowanhick.com/sfx-100-build-and-running-guide

In addition, @anton_Chez has contributed a list of post numbers for some of the important settings etc..
Post #320 SFX-100 thread
Post #327 SFX-100 thread for Discord correlation
Post #339 SFX-100 thread
Post #418 SFX-100 thread
Post #424 SFX-100 thread
Post #439 SFX-100 thread
Post #449 SFX-100 thread
Post #517 SFX-100 thread
Post #554 SFX-100 thread
Post #580 SFX-100 thread
Post #826 SFX-100 thread
Post #837 SFX-100 thread
Post #864,866,867,868,870,887,889,897 SFX-100 thread
Post #911,914 SFX-100 thread
Post #988,992,998 SFX-100 thread
Post #1147 SFX-100 thread
Post #1492 SFX-100 thread
Post #1511,1517 SFX-100 thread

I will try to keep this page updated with links to source the parts in other parts of the world. Just post whatever links you have and i'll add them here.

Please note: Not all the parts listed below are essential for the project. For the essential parts refer to the original shopping list.

Australia:

• O-Ring - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Kit-419Pcs-O-Ring-O-Ring-Black-Rubber-32-Sizes-With-Case-3-50mm-W8D7/223152697816?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
• D-Sub breakout board - DB25 25pin Female Adapter RS-232 Serial Terminal Module Breakout Board Connector
• Emergency Stop - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Reliable-Emergency-Stop-Push-Button-Box-600V-Switch-for-Elevator/192115082001?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
• Arduino Wiring - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/40-pcs-Dupont-Cable-20cm-Jumper-Wire-for-Arduino-RPi-breadboard-AU-Stock/202436863098?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&var=502467628096&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
• Breadboard - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Mini-Solderless-Breadboard-400-Contacts-Tie-points-Universal-Available-New-lemon/123145741183?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
• D-Dub Cable - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Black-D...h=item3f6ace6403:g:038AAOSw9mpaSsU2:rk:1:pf:0
• Screw Shield for Arduino Leonardo - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/New-Scr...h=item25a9d471a4:g:5BgAAOSwraJbc9rC:rk:1:pf:0
• Arduino Leonardo Replica - https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/DIY-Eduino-Leonardo-Module-with-USB-Cable-for-Arduino-ATMEGA32U4-Blue-Black/132719951279?epid=916281063&hash=item1ee6b9bdaf:g:2QUAAOSw5iNbWv6b:rk:123f:

Thanks to @AussieSim for the following links:

10A power lead(s) * 4
https://www.jaycar.com.au/2m-black-mains-extension-lead/p/PS4152

Top quality wire stripper
https://sydneytools.com.au/product/boxo-cutws205-multifunction-wire-stripper

RCD/safety switch power block
https://www.bunnings.com.au/arlec-4-outlet-heavy-duty-portable-safety-switch_p4420028

WD-40 lithium grease for the ball screws
https://www.bunnings.com.au/wd-40-specialist-300g-high-performance-white-lithium-grease_p6100408

Vibration pads
https://www.bunnings.com.au/whites-on-site-100-x-12-5mm-rubber-anti-vibration-mat-4-pack_p3961547

WD-40 Dry PTFE spray for the slider (free shipping)
https://au.rs-online.com/mobile/p/lubricants/7577134/

Arduino Leonardo (free shipping + frequent 10-15% off discount)
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/a000057/arduino-corporation

DB25 cables * 4 (free shipping)
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/ak401-2/assmann-wsw-components-inc

PETG * 3 (free shipping)
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/petg17bk1/mg-chemicals

WAGO-like connectors to avoid a breadboard (perhaps use genuine ones if you are doing 240V AC)
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32906719488.html

D-Sub breakout boards * 4
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32297675967.html

3D printer Creality Ender-3 Pro
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32918302452.html

Wires from Arduino to D-Sub breakout (remove black plastic from the WAGO end)
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32887680826.html

Crimp connectors for AC wire leads
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32813550981.html

 

[Pyronious]

this seems to be the same as the recommended kit, but at 1000 instead of 750 watts. any thoughts?

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/328...4.0&pvid=1ef6015c-43cf-4481-b225-fb8b64a7b183

It’s not the same. The spec’d motor is 3000rpm. The one you linked is 2500rpm.

 

[HoiHman]

Lego with motion

 

[Flag Ghost]

The Lego M22 XL obviously had a stiffer suspension. This SFX profile is a travesty.

 

[Tarheel Dan]

I'm about to begin my project. Have all the major linear motion parts. Servos are on order. Will assemble my PRUSA this weekend.

I currently have my rig on a concrete floor. I would like to fix my motion rig in place somehow, so it can't walk across the room. I'm thinking of some kind of round metal cup, anchored in the concrete.

Has anyone implemented anything of this sort?

 

[RowanH]

For concrete Sorbathane feet are really quite good at keeping the rig 99% in place...

 

[Pyronious]

For concrete Sorbathane feet are really quite good at keeping the rig 99% in place...

Works great on hardwood floors too. I'm using these ones and my rig hasn't walked at all since installing them. The Sorbothane material has natural tackiness that causes them to stick to the floor instead of slide. It's not adhesive, but you do have to kind of peel it off the floor if you want to move it. Highly recommended.

Don't bother with the inferior rubber feet. Look for "Sorbothane" specifically. It's a unique material specifically designed to isolate vibrations.

 

[C64]

My rig is on a concrete floor, I use a board with 4 printed cups attached to it, the sfx100 feet sit in those cups. It does not move but it still allows me to drag the rig ( and board ) on the floor.

 

[Shrive81]

Hey guys I am new here on this thread but just ordered all the parts and also getting my parts finished up on the 3D printer. Was wondering what are you guys using for a nice enclosure for the control units for the motors? or has anyone made a 3d print file for a holder etc. just trying to get all my ducks in a row. Thanks

 

[Pyronious]

These 6U racks seem to be a popular choice. Personally, I used this 9U rack. It has enough room for my 4 servo drivers, 120->220 transformer, transducer amp and power strip. I also added wheels so it can roll around for easy access.

Here is how they are mounted:

I should note, however, that I had to buy an extra set of rails and cut them down to size to mount the servo connectors from the back. If you buy a rack like this, I would recommend finding one with both front and back rails.

 

[Shrive81]

awesome thanks will look them up now... Also just made a decent donation as well and appreciate all the help... Im sure I will have a lot more questions...

 

[Shrive81]

what 102/220 transformer are you running debating to run 220 to the sim room or just run a converter

 

[sn4il]

what 102/220 transformer are you running debating to run 220 to the sim room or just run a converter

This is exactly what I'm facing right now. I do have a 240Vac line in my apartment but its occupied by AC unit.
This line is rated 15 or 20A and my AC draws around 12-13A. There is no way I could run SFX and AC at the same time. I have to buy new AC unit for 110V to have dedicated 240Vac for SFX or I have to buy step up converter.

Pyronious, what gauge are black and white power wires? 14 AWG? they look thin on the photos.

 

[sn4il]

wesome thanks will look them up now... Also just made a decent donation as well and appreciate all the help... Im sure I will have a lot more questions...

Great. Can you point me into right direction. I would like to donate as well since I'm getting close to finish with my build. I'm hearing a lot about discord channels etc. Where can I find more info about it?
Thnx

 

[HoiHman]

Great. Can you point me into right direction. I would like to donate as well since I'm getting close to finish with my build. I'm hearing a lot about discord channels etc. Where can I find more info about it?
Thnx

You can donate through simfeedback after you have it installed

 

[Pyronious]

what 102/220 transformer are you running debating to run 220 to the sim room or just run a converter

I’m using this 3000 watt transformer and it works great! Never even tripped a breaker.

 

[Shrive81]

printing my first part tonight.. its is a 14 hour print for the fixed bearing mount...….. Once I confirm these prints are working if anyone needs prints done let me know I might be able to help out at a cheaper cost then what I got quoted hahahaha ( it was laughable lets just say that )

 

[Vincent Dimaio]

hi all

how many wall line count do you use in cura software?

 

[Pyronious]

how many wall line count do you use in cura software?

The documentation states at least 8.

 

[Pyronious]

Pyronious, what gauge are black and white power wires? 14 AWG? they look thin on the photos.

18AWG wire rated for 300V. At this length it should be fine for up to 5 amps. Since each servo only draws a max of 750 watts at 220v the current would top out at about 3.5 amps. Real world testing shows I’m only drawing about half that.

 

[Shrive81]

Well first 3d print was not a success the answer 5 printer made a big blob at about 9 hours into the print. Does anyone have travel speed settings for the print as I was getting a lot of stringing in the print. And I also have no idea why the thing stopped at 9 hours in...

How long was it taking for your guys prints in the bearing support