Aldric Negrier, of the RepRap Algarve fame, is a Portuguese 3D printer builder and has just unveiled his latest creation, the RooBee One, an SLA/DLP 3D printer with an aluminum frame. The design code has been uploaded by Aldric on Instructables.

The printer is named RooBee One because of its deep red color. It is largely inspired by the Cristelia SLA 3D printer and Vulcanus MAX, Negrier’s own creation. The machine features an adjustable print bed, Arduino Mega, ACER DLP projector and is totally open source. The printer has unique features, like the Z axis is similar to that of the open-source Cristelia, with the addition of a few tweaks for better performance. The linear guide system for the Z axis is composed of two linear LMK12UU bearings and two 12mm rods, which are enclosed inside 3D printed casings. The transmission system comprises of a NEMA 17 stepper motor and an 8mm lead screw and nut.

The Z axis arm of the RooBee One is entirely new since the arm of the Cristelia did not fit inside the new printer’s housing. The new arm consists of a 3D printed casing, two LMK12UU bearings. The 3D printed section of the arm is a huge single piece and requires a huge build volume printer.

The resin vat for the RooBee One is made using five plexiglass panels, four red, one crystal, as well as acrylic glue. Negrier also used FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene) film, a non-stick insulating material, resistant to chemicals and solvents to make the vat tight and secure.
The print bed of the RooBee One is made from 5mm aluminum sheet, which should be sanded to improve layer adhesion. The RooBee One’s electronics are an Arduino MEGA, a RAMPS 1.4 shield, an end stop, a micro-stepping driver, a NEMA 17 stepper motor and a 12V transformer. Negrier has used Repetier firmware, and he uses Creation Workshop to slice models before 3D printing on the machine. Printing can be paused and resumed, and users are also given a rough estimate of the entire printing process.