After far too long the computer interface for my Monotype Composition Caster is complete. In this case, “complete” means that it is a single self-contained unit with no straggling wires.
My last step was to add a housing/support bracket for the power plug connector and 24 volt power supply. The design for this had to be adjusted so the entire unit would still fit on the caster.
Click on any photo for a larger version.
Here’s how it looks on the caster with the air regulator, filter, and pressure gauge installed:
I guess this now qualifies as a finished prototype. I will be updating my drawing files to match how this was made, since as the work progressed I deviated from the original design where the changes seemed like an improvement. The updated design will have some other changes on the internal parts to accommodate a proper case, to replace some of the obsolete components on the PCB, and to relocate the internal cycle sensor.
I should also change the pneumatics on my caster so this filter/regulator unit feeds the entire caster, and a flexible hose tapping off this would connect to the computer interface. This would mean that features like Unit Shift would work, and also that there would be less weight hanging off the front of the interface.
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