Description

This project aims to develop an open-source guitar pickup winder which could be build relatively easily, using a set of 3D printed mounting hardware.

The physical structure is built out of 2020 aluminium extrusion which is readily available online since it’s extensively used for DIY 3D printers. One may be able to source all the pieces from offcuts and scarps.

Design requirements

A set on initial requirements for the pickup winder are as follows:

Most basic functionality: (i.e. one could get started and wind a pickup manually)

  • Rotate a pickup bobbin and precisely count and display the number of turns.
  • Rotate both clockwise and counter-clockwise.
  • Control the speed of the winder.

Intermediate functionality: (Semi-manual winding) - Release of public plans.

  • Move an X-axis left-right for automated winding
  • Control the speed of the left-right movement. (i.e. This should control the scatter amount)
    • This can be based on wire thickness, etc.
  • Control the left-right limits of the X-axis.
  • Show magnet polarity (And maybe strength).

An example of the current working prototype at this second stage of development, winding a start-style single-coil pickup:

Advanced functionality: (Fully automated winding, presets, wireless, etc.)

  • Control the wire pressure.
  • Create presets.
  • GUI to control machine from web?

Parts:

  • 1x Permanent magnet motor + driver
  • 1x Mini stepper motor + driver
  • 1x Arduino Nano
  • 1x IR switch
  • 1x LCD screen
  • 1x Potentiometer
  • 1x Mini linear guide
  • 3x Mini bearings
  • 5x Mini momentary push buttons.
  • 1x (specify length) 2020 Aluminium extrusion
  • 1x Set of 3D-printed mounting hardware, available here for free download. (Plans not released yet!)
  • Misc screws, nuts, bolts, washers. (M4/M5/M6).

TODO:

  • URGENT! Design new bobbin holder plate.
    • Accommodate various pickup designs.
    • Easy to use.
    • No tape.
    • Maybe something like a chuck? Would it hold?

3D printed chuck works well in the initial testing.

  • Design control PCB
    • Both Arduino and movement one.

Link to GitHub repo