Stepper motor brake

[Aiph5u (Aiph5u (not affiliated with Onefinity))]

Hey Tom,

@TMToronto

I started investigating constant force springs as a solution. Here is my idea for the wall mount application (forgive the quick crude drawing). It would take a bit of creative mounting, but I could see the end attaching to the Z assembly - the other coiled end attached with bolts where the x axis motor mounts. See examples below. Correct force of spring would need to be determined. It should line up nicely with my mounting suggestions.

I like your solution, because

1. It’s logical, because you meet a force (the force of gravity) with an opposing force (the restoring force of a constant-force spring) – it’s like using anti-gravity. Fascinating.

2. In contrast to the electromagnetic brake, you do not constantly consume 11.5 W of power.

But I also like Jim’s solution. Because

1. solutions that consist of a piece of wood have been successful for millions of years. I like that!