Assembly Overview
Complete guide to assembling your Fabrica cloth folding robot from 3D printed parts
Full assembly process from individual modules to finished robot
Before You Begin
- ✓ All 3D printed parts completed (motorized modules, follower modules, center panel, controller housing)
- ✓ Electronics components ready (Raspberry Pi Pico 2W, PCA9685, servos, buttons, LED)
- ✓ All wiring completed and tested (refer to Hardware & Wiring section)
- ✓ Software uploaded to Pico 2W (refer to Software & Code section)
- ✓ Workspace cleared with adequate lighting
- ✓ 4-6 hours of uninterrupted time
Assembly Sequence
Follow these steps in order for the most efficient build. Each module is assembled separately first, then integrated into the complete system.
Motorized Modules (×4)
Build all four motorized modules that will actively fold the cloth.
⏱️ Time: ~60 minutes (15 min each)
Follower Modules (×4)
Assemble the passive follower modules on opposite edges.
⏱️ Time: ~30 minutes (7-8 min each)
Center Panel
Build the center base module that all modules connect to.
⏱️ Time: ~20 minutes
Controller Housing
Assemble the electronics enclosure with buttons, LED, and mounting hardware.
⏱️ Time: ~30 minutes
Final Assembly & Integration
Connect all modules to the center panel, install electronics, route cables.
⏱️ Time: ~90 minutes
Testing & Calibration
Power-on checks, servo calibration, motion testing, and final adjustments.
⏱️ Time: ~45 minutes
Tools & Materials Needed
Essential Tools
- • Phillips head screwdriver (PH1, PH2)
- • Hex key set (1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm)
- • Needle-nose pliers
- • Wire cutters/strippers
- • Small flat-head screwdriver
- • Tweezers (for small parts)
- • Multimeter (continuity check)
Fasteners & Hardware
- • M3 screws (6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm)
- • M3 nuts (standard and lock nuts)
- • M3 washers
- • M2 screws (for servo horns)
- • Cable ties (various sizes)
- • Double-sided tape (optional)
Optional but Recommended
- • Thread-locker (blue, removable)
- • Isopropyl alcohol (cleaning)
- • Small paint brush (debris removal)
- • Heat shrink tubing
- • Label maker or masking tape
- • Parts organizer/tray
Safety Guidelines
⚠️ Safety Precautions
- • Never power on electronics until all connections are verified
- • Servos can generate high torque - keep fingers clear during testing
- • Use safety glasses when cutting plastic or trimming supports
- • Disconnect power before making any wiring changes
- • Work in well-ventilated area if using solvents or adhesives
💡 Pro Tips
- • Lay out all parts before starting to verify completeness
- • Test fit all screws before final assembly
- • Take photos at each major step for reference
- • Label servo cables immediately after installation
- • Don't overtighten plastic parts - they can crack
- • Keep a cleanup cloth handy for fingerprints on panels
Ready to Build?
Make sure you have all prerequisites completed, tools ready, and a clean workspace. The assembly process is straightforward if you follow the steps methodically.