The ShapeOKO
Long ago, I purchased a kit for the ShapeOKO 1. At the time of this writing, they are on version 5 of this machine. This unit is more a “pro” unit that goes beyond the desktop hobbyist but is still small enough to occupy a suitable spot on your desk (albeit, more space than the 3018). The ShapeOKO 1 used belts for movement, using all-metal components. I outgrew mine almost immediately, and it has sat languishing and waiting for its upgrades. The new versions of the ShapeOKO have features that improve rigidity and accuracy that we have discussed elsewhere in this book, such as rails and ballscrews. I will eventually modify mine to use leadscrews and rails and replace the current contrller with an updated controller, or convert it to a purely laser platform. The ShapeOKO is expensive when compared to our 3018s, and the jump in cost is significant. However, it is a more “serious” machine, and if you are doing more than hobby work, this machine...
