Actuation comparsion between linear motors, belts and ballscrews for 3D printing applications

[wgbowley]

1. Derive any quantitative scaling laws for each architecture
2. Compare each architecture with both quantitative and qualitative data.
3. Define the specific boundaries between each choice
4. Specifically conclude with advantageous regions for linear motors

[wgbowley]

$$ \text{Volumetric Flow} = \text{layer height} \times \text{extrusion width} \times \text{print speed} $$

• Layer Height: $Q \propto h$
• Extrusion Width: $Q \propto w$
• Print Speed: $Q \propto v$

Given a constant volumetric flow determined by the hot end, linear motors can achieve thinner layer heights or extension width due to potential higher accelerations than standard motion systems (However this is still to be determined)

[wgbowley]

Often extension is the limiting factor, linear motors may redistribute parameters within that volumetric flow equation above. Only however if the motors acceleration and dynamics characteristics were the limiting factor before rather than structural rigidity of the system etc.

** Just something to keep in mind for the document.

[wgbowley]

Higher atmospheric due to a heated chamber means that the asymptotic temperature of the system increases and hence a linear motor within such an environment would have to be thermally throttled which might not be the same for other motion systems.