Motorized Modules Assembly

Build the active folding units with servo motors

10 min read
60 min (15 min each) work

What You Will Build

Motorized modules are the active folding units of Fabrica. Each contains an MG996R servo motor that provides the torque to lift and fold modules. You will build 4 motorized modules that will be positioned on opposite sides of the center panel.

Quantity

4 modules

Parts per Module

6 printed + 1 servo

Time Each

~15 minutes

Parts & Tools Needed

Per Motorized Module

  • • 1× Base plate (3D printed)
  • • 1× Servo mount bracket (3D printed)
  • • 1× Panel arm (3D printed)
  • • 1× Servo horn adapter (3D printed)
  • • 2× Side support (3D printed)
  • • 1× MG996R servo motor
  • • 4× M3×10mm screws (servo mount)
  • • 2× M2×8mm screws (servo horn)
  • • 4× M3×8mm screws (assembly)

Tools Required

  • • Phillips screwdriver (PH1)
  • • Small Phillips screwdriver (PH0 for servo horn)
  • • 2.5mm hex key
  • • Needle-nose pliers
  • • Label tape/marker

Assembly Steps (Per Module)

1

Prepare the Base Plate

  1. a.Inspect the base plate for any printing defects or support material residue
  2. b.Clean all mounting holes with a 3mm drill bit or small file if needed
  3. c.Identify the orientation: servo mount holes should face upward
  4. d.Set aside with printed surface facing up
2

Install Servo Motor

⚠️ Important: Do NOT attach the servo horn yet. Calibration must be done first.

  1. a.Remove the servo horn from the servo (save for later)
  2. b.Position servo motor on the servo mount bracket
  3. c.Align the servo output shaft with the center hole in the bracket
  4. d.Secure servo with 4× M3×10mm screws through the servo mounting ears
  5. e.Tighten screws gradually in a cross pattern to avoid cracking plastic
  6. f.Route servo cable through the cable channel on the bracket
3

Attach Side Supports

  1. a.Position left side support on the base plate
  2. b.Align mounting holes and secure with 2× M3×8mm screws
  3. c.Repeat for right side support
  4. d.Ensure both supports are perpendicular to the base plate
4

Mount Servo Bracket to Base

  1. a.Position the servo mount bracket (with servo attached) onto the base plate between the side supports
  2. b.Align the mounting holes on the bracket with holes in the base plate
  3. c.Secure with 2× M3×8mm screws from the bottom of the base plate
  4. d.Verify the servo shaft is centered and accessible
5

Label the Module

  1. a.Use label tape or permanent marker to mark this module with a number (1-4)
  2. b.Label the servo cable with the same number
  3. c.This helps during calibration and troubleshooting

    4. Suggested layout: Modules 1-2 on left/right edges, Modules 3-4 on top/bottom edges

6

Repeat for Remaining Modules

Complete steps 1-5 for all four motorized modules. Maintain consistency in assembly technique:

  • • Use the same screw tightness for all modules
  • • Keep servo cable routing consistent
  • • Verify each module sits flat on a table
  • • Label sequentially (Module 1, 2, 3, 4)

Quality Checks

✓ Verify each module before proceeding:

Common Issues

❌ Servo does not fit in bracket

Solution: MG996R servos have slight dimensional variations. Gently file or sand the bracket opening. Test fit frequently to avoid making it too loose.

❌ Screw holes are too tight

Solution: Use a 3mm drill bit to clean out M3 holes. Plastic can shrink slightly after printing, making holes undersized. Do NOT force screws—they can crack the plastic.

❌ Module sits unevenly

Solution: Check that the base plate is flat (no warping from printing). Verify side supports are tightened evenly. If base is warped, re-print with better bed adhesion or slower cooling.

Motorized Modules Complete! ✓

You now have 4 motorized modules ready. Next, build the follower modules that will provide passive support on the opposite edges of the center panel.

Continue to Follower Modules →
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Assembly Overview
Assembly: Follower Modules
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