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The actuator module requires three precision-machined metal parts: motor shaft, motor pulley, and center pulley. These components are critical to the performance of the timing belt transmission system. Machined parts - motor shaft, motor pulley, and center pulley

ODRI Encoder Kit Option

As an alternative to manufacturing these parts yourself, you can order the ODRI Encoder Kit which includes all machined parts, the code wheel, and encoder. See the Actuator Module Core v1.1 Documentation for details.

Timing Belt Pulleys

Critical Design Considerations

Do NOT use standard AT3 timing belt pulley dimensions or tools. The tooth profile has been modified from the original AT3 specification to reduce backlash. Custom manufacturing is required.
For best performance, the tooth profile of the pulleys must be very precise. Two manufacturing methods are available: This method uses a custom form cutter to machine the precise tooth profile. Custom Form Cutter with AT3 tooth profile Form Cutter Specifications:
  • Shaft Diameter: 3mm
  • Teeth: 3 teeth
  • Helix Angle: 20 degrees
  • Material to Cut: 7075 aluminum
Manufacturing Instructions:
  1. Order Custom Form Cutter:
    • Find a company that offers custom tooling and can produce custom form cutters
    • Provide this technical drawing: PDF Drawing - Pulley AT3 T10 Form Cutter
    • Specify that the tool will be used to machine 7075 aluminum
  2. Machine the Pulleys:
Aluminum AT3 pulleys machined with custom form cutter

Option B: Wire EDM Cutting

Alternatively, the tooth profile can be generated using Wire EDM (Wire Electrical Discharge Machining). Pulleys manufactured using Wire EDM Considerations:
  • Initial testing has been completed to evaluate this option
  • Cost: No significant advantage over form cutter method
  • Surface Finish: Much rougher surface compared to form cutter method
  • Durability Concerns: Unknown effect on timing belt lifespan due to rougher surface
Technical Files:
The form cutter method (Option A) is recommended as it provides superior surface finish and proven performance.

Remaining Machining Operations

After the tooth profile is created (using either method), the remaining machining steps are completed on a lathe:
  • Outer diameter finishing
  • Bore diameter
  • Hub features
  • Face features

Motor Pulleys

Motor Pulley Specifications

Motor Pulley AT3 T10 Manufacturing Process:
  1. Create tooth profile using custom form cutter (Option A) or Wire EDM (Option B)
  2. Complete remaining features on lathe
  3. Ensure tight tolerances on bore to fit motor shaft

Center Pulley Specifications

Center Pulley AT3 T10 Manufacturing Process:
  1. Create tooth profile using custom form cutter (Option A) or Wire EDM (Option B)
  2. Complete remaining features on lathe
  3. Ensure bearing seat dimensions are accurate

Motor Shafts

Precision ground motor shaft

Material Specifications

Stock Material:
  • Material: Precision Ground Stainless Steel Rod 1.4301 EN10278 h9
  • Diameter: 4.0mm (actual diameter: 3.97mm - 3.99mm)
  • Tolerance: h9
  • Supplier: Weinmann Aach (Germany)
  • Product Code: erd4
The stock material diameter (3.97mm - 3.99mm) fits the motor bearings without additional adjustments. This precision ground material saves machining time.

Motor Shaft Specifications

Motor Shaft Manufacturing Process:
  1. Start with 4mm h9 precision ground stainless steel rod
  2. Machine according to technical drawing
  3. Key features:
    • Precise diameter for motor bearing fit
    • Pulley mounting section
    • Code wheel mounting section
    • Shoulder dimensions

Machining Tolerances

Critical Tolerances

Ensure the following tolerances are maintained:
FeatureToleranceNotes
Pulley tooth profile±0.05mmCritical for belt engagement
Bearing seatsh7For proper bearing fit
Shaft diametersh9For motor bearing and pulley fit
Concentricity±0.02mmBetween bearing seats and tooth profile

Quality Checks

After machining, verify:
  1. Tooth Profile: Check with timing belt for proper engagement
  2. Bearing Fit: Test fit bearings (should be light press fit)
  3. Concentricity: Measure runout with dial indicator
  4. Surface Finish: Ensure smooth surfaces on bearing seats

Material Properties

7075 Aluminum (Pulleys)

Properties:
  • High strength-to-weight ratio
  • Good machinability
  • Excellent fatigue resistance
  • Lightweight (density: 2.81 g/cm³)
Heat Treatment:
  • T6 temper recommended for maximum strength

Stainless Steel 1.4301 (Motor Shaft)

Properties:
  • Corrosion resistant
  • Good mechanical properties
  • Precision ground surface finish
  • Non-magnetic
Equivalent Standards:
  • AISI 304
  • EN 1.4301

Assembly Preparation

After machining, before assembly:
  1. Deburr all edges - Remove any sharp edges or burrs
  2. Clean thoroughly - Remove all machining oils and debris
  3. Inspect dimensions - Verify all critical dimensions with calipers
  4. Test fit components - Verify fit with bearings and shafts before final assembly

Technical Drawing Summary

ComponentDrawingMaterialWeight
Motor Pulley AT3 T10PDF7075 Aluminum0.6g
Center Pulley AT3 T10PDF7075 Aluminum2.1g
Motor ShaftPDFStainless Steel 1.43013.2g
Total Weight of Machined Parts: 5.9g

Supplier Contact Information

Stock Material Supplier

Weinmann Aach (Germany)
  • Website: weinmann-aach.de
  • Product: Precision Ground Stainless Steel Rod 1.4301 EN10278 h9 4.0mm (erd4)
  • Ships within Europe

Form Cutter Manufacturers

Contact custom tooling companies that specialize in form cutters. Provide the technical drawing and specify:
  • Profile geometry per drawing
  • 3mm shaft diameter
  • 3 teeth
  • 20° helix angle
  • Material to be cut: 7075 aluminum

Machine Shops

Any qualified machine shop with:
  • CNC or manual milling capability
  • Lathe capability
  • Ability to hold tight tolerances (±0.05mm)
  • Experience with aluminum and stainless steel

Cost Considerations

Form Cutter Method:
  • Higher initial cost (custom form cutter)
  • Lower per-part cost for multiple units
  • Better surface finish
  • Faster production for quantities >10 units
Wire EDM Method:
  • Lower initial tooling cost
  • Higher per-part cost
  • Acceptable for prototype quantities
  • Rougher surface finish

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