User build

Printed AR4 with Reinforced 3D Printing

EU-friendly AR4MK2 with reinforced joints

Built by Paul BistenEurope

Photos

About my build

Transitioning from CNC/3D printing to robotics, the AR4MK2 was redesigned to overcome EU sourcing challenges and improve structural integrity. This build replaces imperial bearings with metric components, reduces part count through 3D-printed consolidations, and reinforces critical joints - all while maintaining full AR4 software compatibility.

Workflow / process

1. Design Phase
  - Studied original kinematics from technical drawings
  - Identified imperial-to-metric conversion points
  - Planned part consolidations for simplified assembly
2. Fabrication
  - Printed consolidated components (J1/J2 housing)
  - Reinforced Z-axis prints with steel pins
  - Fabricated J4 shaft from ground stainless tubing
3. Assembly & Testing
  - Verified metric bearing press fits
  - Tested reinforced joints under load
  - Confirmed motion accuracy with AR4 software

Primary use cases

DIY manufacturing system
Educational robotics platform
Prototyping/test automation

Custom modifications

Consolidated 3D-printed parts
Full metric bearing conversion
Lathe-free metal components
Steel-reinforced joints

Hardware add-ons

Ground stainless tubing
Metric bearings (all joints)
Optimized gripper mount
Steel pin reinforcements

Software used

AR4 control system
CAD (Fusion 360)
Slicer (PrusaSlicer)

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