Hattori: there is a problem with the X-axis, giving inaccurate positioning

[tingox]

there is something wrong with the X-axis on Hattori, resulting in inaccurate positioning and poor diagonal operation. (Apparently, some people have known about this problem for some time too. We should improve our issue documenting procedure).

We should open up Hattori and check the X-axis to figure out what the problem is:

• something wrong with the cog wheel?
• something wrong with the toothed rack?
• dust / debris build up?
• or something else?

Getting access to the back side of Hattori is not easy with the current way it is mounted into the cabinet. Fixing / improving access is a separate issue (#20).

[tingox]

New information received from the creator of Hattori a few days ago: the "tightness" of the X-axis has been there from day one. His suggestion is to build a newer, better machine. He thinks the problem is either from the implementation or the design of the machine.

Reminder to self: ask about the other Hattori: does it have the same problems as this one?

[tingox]

On Kuben they have modified the glide blocks (POM) on the X axis by removing some material with a Dremel, effectively creating "pockets" and less surface (= less friction) between glide blocks and the other part. (This workaround increases dust accumulation in the modified area)

[tingox]

Another (better) option is to replace the current X-axis on Hattori with the new type of axis (using ball bearings), as used in machines like Hedy.