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

 

[Mcorp]

can someone tell me where i can find the SimFeedback discord channel? ....somehow i can't seem to find it.

 

[ThugUK]

can someone tell me where i can find the SimFeedback discord channel? ....somehow i can't seem to find it.

You have to be invited to it, and will be when you donate to the SFB software.

 

[Mcorp]

i found it in the donation mail when i donated, so thanks.

 

[mechsicko]

Looks like the opensfx folks are having problems due to people commercializing aspects of the design, anyone know specifics? I recently saw a company offering sfx100 type cylinders in several levels of kit bundling all the off-shelf hardware from China with ready cut/tapped extrusions and machined aluminum bearing supports/motor mounts and even offering complete cylinders both with and without the motors, with extrusions available anodized in colors or plain.

While on one hand I think the originators of opensfx are a touch oversensitive on this subject, what this company is offering obviously crosses the line and clearly against the stated wishes of the originators and even my eyebrow raised. The prices were pretty much in line with what you end up paying as an individual building one of these though but their motors come standard with shielded wire so it's hard to imagine their actually making money on this. I'd be surprised if this wasn't a result of them but anyone got the sauce? I see that company's site is still up offering them though I'm not going to link it here for obvious reasons.

In case anyone hasn't seen the openSFX site with its new message:

SFX Guide and Community

opensfx.com

 

[metalnwood]

@mechsicko It's pretty much what you have read. Too many people trying to rip off the idea near verbatim.

People will do it, they always have for a quick buck and there is not a lot that can be done about it in reality. I know the view of Saxxon who is behind the design and can understand why he doesn't like it happening. He is a creator and he had a vision for a community that would build and contribute to the success of this.

Then there are people profiting off it while not really helping the community. A lot of these people could just be a drain on the same community while giving nothing back and not having the knowledge to give back. This is a large part of what you get in a DIY community, the help and the knowledge built up from doing it yourself and passing on knowledge.

From my own personal experience, I spent quite a bit of time helping someone out with getting things running only to find out later he was on another forum having a good old laugh about what suckers we were. It turns out he didn't build his but sucked all the help from others and he will never contribute back himself.

So yes, on one hand more people will get access to cheap motion which was one of the goals but on the other hand it doesnt help a good DIY community that may get leeched off by people that should have got a more commercial product with the support appropriate for them.

my 2c.

 

[diablo2112]

what this company is offering obviously crosses the line

What line is that?

Does it go against the stated "wishes" of the SFX-100 community. Yes, most certainly. Does it violate any of the licenses under which the SFX project was released? No, not at all. SFX claims only 2 licenses: software and the STL files. That commercial outfit doesn't do anything with software. And they provide their own CNC machined parts to fit the extrusions they offer. Neither of the SFX licenses is violated by the commercial offering of actuator kits. Finally, is it illegal? No, absolutely not. See above.

Given that, the only recourse the SFX team has to enforce the "rules" of no commerical kits or builds is to deny a Simfeedback software license or key to anyone they wish. That's their perogative. And, that's exactly what they're doing. They stopped giving licenses for the "expert" mode of Simfeedback. Again, that's the perogative of Saxxon if he so wishes. Builders have other options for software, of course. All that said, it's still an appropriate gesture to provide a modest donation to the SFX team should you avail yourself of the many resources they provide.

 

[Furnace Inferno]

What line is that?

Does it go against the stated "wishes" of the SFX-100 community. Yes, most certainly. Does it violate any of the licenses under which the SFX project was released? No, not at all. SFX claims only 2 licenses: software and the STL files. That commercial outfit doesn't do anything with software. And they provide their own CNC machined parts to fit the extrusions they offer. Neither of the SFX licenses is violated by the commercial offering of actuator kits. Finally, is it illegal? No, absolutely not. See above.

Given that, the only recourse the SFX team has to enforce the "rules" of no commerical kits or builds is to deny a Simfeedback software license or key to anyone they wish. That's their perogative. And, that's exactly what they're doing. They stopped giving licenses for the "expert" mode of Simfeedback. Again, that's the perogative of Saxxon if he so wishes. Builders have other options for software, of course.

Interesting, so you are/were fully aware there is a commercial license for using the STL files to print and sell the parts and yet you still do/did it...

Not really sure you really have a leg to stand on when it comes to the subject!

 

[Jason Graham]

I still have an extra set of profile from kinetic plus inserts and tnuts. I’ll even throw in an Sox shield

Hi, I'd be interested in this. I am in Austrlalia. Please let me know. Thanks!

 

[BluePotato00]

[Sorry, removed since I'm not a paying advertiser on RD. Don't want to get into trouble!]

 

[B4S]

I have been waiting for 6 weeks for my Kinetic profiles now. After 3 days of placing the order I got the invoice which all looked fine. Than on 29th of june the message that the shipping details where instructed to DHL. These same instructions were again instructed to DHL on the 20th of july. Just the instructions no moving of any package whatsoever. For the next weeks all went silent... The start of this week I saw on there website that everything is on stock and being shipped in 3 working days. Of course after several calls and two e-mails no response....

Any advice here, because I am thinking something went wrong. It would very much give me some rest if they would give me a short status update....
I have read the experiences with this company from the builders on this forum, and it differs a lot (good and bad). I praise Kinetic Msystems for offering these parts to us so we can build this project but they could take away some concern by just letting something know to their customers about their order.

If anyone has any advice/experience let me know, or should I just hold up this 'waiting game'...?
Since people seem to receive their parts within two weeks max now....

Cheers!

 

[Mcorp]

I have been waiting for 6 weeks for my Kinetic profiles now. After 3 days of placing the order I got the invoice which all looked fine. Than on 29th of june the message that the shipping details where instructed to DHL. These same instructions were again instructed to DHL on the 20th of july. Just the instructions no moving of any package whatsoever. For the next weeks all went silent... The start of this week I saw on there website that everything is on stock and being shipped in 3 working days. Of course after several calls and two e-mails no response....

Any advice here, because I am thinking something went wrong. It would very much give me some rest if they would give me a short status update....
I have read the experiences with this company from the builders on this forum, and it differs a lot (good and bad). I praise Kinetic Msystems for offering these parts to us so we can build this project but they could take away some concern by just letting something know to their customers about their order.

If anyone has any advice/experience let me know, or should I just hold up this 'waiting game'...?
Since people seem to receive their parts within two weeks max now....

Cheers!

i live in the netherlands next to germany and it took them 4 weeks to ship mine, and with the holidays it might just take longer. maybe corona has it's affect as well.

 

[B4S]

well, we are not that far away I guess, I live in the Netherlands to

When did you order yours exactly?
How long dit it take for you to receive a track&trace nr and actually see DHL receiving the package?
There is 5 weeks in between now with my order...

Maybe you are right, but they could make it easier to just give a status update of the Invoice.
Even if you are a B2B company primeraly..

 

[Mcorp]

actually i din't get a track and trace they just send a link from dhl that it woud arrive the next day.

Btw i live in arnhem so very close to border.

 

[B4S]

So when did you order them Exactly?

I live beneath Utrecht, but the Netherlands is not that big ;-)...
nice to be in touch Mcorp and good to know more ’dutchies’ are building this project!

 

[Mcorp]

So when did you order them Exactly?

I live beneath Utrecht, but the Netherlands is not that big ;-)...
nice to be in touch Mcorp and good to know more ’dutchies’ are building this project!

mine is allready done to be honest and it works perfect, i love it thanks for the guy's that made this possible.

As for the time/mails ........i am sure it was like 4 weeks total but i dont't have the mails anymore so i can't say precise anymore.
Dutchies are everywhere .......i think Hoiman is also Dutch. (btw if you need a shield board i have one for you).

 

[B4S]

Which version of the shield bord is it? Currently I have a 1.32 version.
and does it come with all connectors already on it?

depending on price, wouldn’t mind having a ’spare’ just in case

 

[Mcorp]

it's only the board and di do have some connectors but you don't have to pay just the shipping will be ok. i think the latest version is the one i have.
we are here to help each other not to make money

 

[d69morpwr]

I have been waiting for 6 weeks for my Kinetic profiles now. After 3 days of placing the order I got the invoice which all looked fine. Than on 29th of june the message that the shipping details where instructed to DHL. These same instructions were again instructed to DHL on the 20th of july. Just the instructions no moving of any package whatsoever. For the next weeks all went silent... The start of this week I saw on there website that everything is on stock and being shipped in 3 working days. Of course after several calls and two e-mails no response....

Any advice here, because I am thinking something went wrong. It would very much give me some rest if they would give me a short status update....
I have read the experiences with this company from the builders on this forum, and it differs a lot (good and bad). I praise Kinetic Msystems for offering these parts to us so we can build this project but they could take away some concern by just letting something know to their customers about their order.

If anyone has any advice/experience let me know, or should I just hold up this 'waiting game'...?
Since people seem to receive their parts within two weeks max now....

Cheers!

That's exactly how mine went. It will show up eventually. Once it actually moves its super fast.lol

 

[B4S]

@ Mcorp, I just send you a PM ;-)

 

[Makiabelo]

Hi, everybody,
Does anyone know how to contact the staff of opensfx.com?
They indicate that if you have recently finished your project you should contact them to see if they can provide a solution, but I can't find out how to contact them.

Thank you,