RSSLooks like the small-scale aluminum t-slot world his heating up! Previously I've recommended 80/20 for small projects that needed sturdy, precise framing structures to hold up a microcontroller and some sensors, but those can be difficult to find in small sizes. Now we've got MicroRAX from Twintec, and Mini-T by Maker Beam on the way soon. Both are a 10mm square stock with a variety of connectors, joints, and hardware. They are aimed at makers, with direct sales, and small kits of common parts.
MicroRAX are available for purchase now, and you can contact them for free samples if you'd like to play around with some. I spoke with Chris Burrows from Twintec and he said they're ready for an onslaught of sample orders, so bring it on!
I'm excited to see that they've uploaded CAD files for two of their parts to Thingiverse, so you can plan your project in 3D. Head here to download them. Hopefully they'll add CAD files for all of their parts soon.
[via HackedGadgets]
The website says "Free sample temporarily unavailable due to unexpected demand click for more info.
US inquires only for now, sorry. " Looks like they were not as ready as they thought...
Reply to this comment
Yes the website does say "temporarily unavailable"
What usually happens is that a company that is giving away free samples, usually gets posted to "Free Stuff" websites. So what they do, is say that samples are unavailable, even if they are. As they figure, that those people that really want the samples, will still order them. And those that were just random passerby free stuff junkies, won't bother.
I know, I'm an expert free stuff junky... and I've seen this trick mulitple times.
So, order away Makers!
Worst case, they back order it...
Reply to this comment
Does anyone have the link to the full size version?
Some time ago I saw a larger version of a aluminum modular system used to create a small trailer. However, I can't seem to find it now.
Thank you,
Reply to this comment
Hi John, I think you're asking about 80/20 http://www.8020.net/
Reply to this comment
Okay, I just received my sample from MicroRAX and just wanted to let everyone know that these seem pretty good. They provided one "clear" anodized and one "black" anodized piece...
They went together well with the "L" bracket and they aren't kidding when they say 1/4 turn to tighten. That almost seems too much, but ends up being just about perfect.
I really see something like this being used in educational markets and could really be a good modern version of the Erector Set. The edges don't seem to be sharp at all, however their website doesn't really say anything about proper cutting techniques...
Either way, I'll definitely be picking up a starter set soon!
Reply to this comment