Bomb Squad Bots, New-ish Kukas, CNC Machines, and Plasma Cutters

Welcome back! I know it’s been a bit since the last post — I’ve been busy with a couple of other projects and sensor acquisitions (including maybe a new workshop!). In the last month I’ve grabbed two Velodyne VLP-32Cs, one Velarray M1600, and the big boy VLS-128. Stay tuned on twitter/x for continued SLAM, laser, thermal, and other robotics projects.

Now for the real reason you’re reading this: surplus. Ending today are three different auctions for Form 3B+ resin printers. As far as resin goes, Form is pretty much the best. While they just recently released the 4B, this one is still reviewed pretty highly, and it’s hard to beat $600 if they are in good shape. Used in the West Virginia University Innovation Hub, so they do run the risk of having been abused by a lot of students (not the worst thing in the world as my fleet of Makerbot S5s from Temple University ended up being a great purchase). I’m tempted to bid on these just so I can finally make it to Morgantown and ride the PRT.

More bots in Berryville

It looks like C2 is liquidating some manufacturing robots. I own one of these KRC2s and would recommend them if you’re in the market for a slightly-larger-than-desktop industrial arm. The first two come with grippers, which means that they were likely palletizing and spared from the much more destructive welding jobs. Price is a bit high and no bids, so it’s likely these will be relisted for less (though this is for two, and is about exactly double what I paid for mine).

They also are selling a KR10 R900-2. Don’t let the seemingly rough cosmetics fool you, this arm was manufactured in 2020, has an 11kg max payload, a reach of 0.9 meters, and pose repeatability of 0.02mm. My common refrain — if I had the space, I’d really be considering it. I’ll probably regret sending this one out.

Honorable mentions

A California arm! I used to drive through Gilroy all the time, this arm probably smells like garlic.

Looks like GovPlanet has another set of Foster Miller bomb bots. Basically an RC tank with cameras and an arm/gripper on the fron. You’ll need the controller and matching radio if you want to use these as is (I know a guy with 30, if you’re in the market).

Machining Corner

Misc

And finally, the most beautiful ambulance I have ever seen. Only 70k miles, but the V8 apparently won’t stay running. I love her.