Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Newbie would like some help building please

Mike,

I've built a hexapod with a Porter Cable trim router as the head. It was
designed to cut (with sign-like Z-axis of ~2") over a range of 48"x36", but
in reality only does about 40"x30". When I want 18" of z-axis plus roll
and pitch, the x-y range is more limited.

It is not fast. With the motors and drivers, I can only count on about
1/2"/sec.

But, I learned a great deal about 6-axis control and 5-axis
milling. Although I'm building a faster/stronger machine, this has not in
any sense been a waste.

My cost for everything (steel, screws, base, motors, motor drivers, power
supply, pendant), not counting some experiments, is about $400.00. I had
the computer, and a good background in electronics and programming.

This doesn't count the tools I bought :) [drill press, welder, taps,
clamps, ...]

How much of the work do you want to do yourself, and how much do you want
to buy?

For my next machine, I'm using ballscrews, and will spend as much on the
screws as I spent on the entire previous machine. I'm also going to a more
powerful spindle, so that I can cut aluminum at higher speed.

The advantage of a hexapod (in my view) is that you don't have the long
ways that must be straight and true. Mechanical errors are calibrated out
of the system in software.

As for tool life, I find that carbide bits last for a long time in
wood. HSS bits don't last long at all.

-- Carl

>Hi, I have been trying to locate a place to get plans for a home cnc
>machine, but have come across a variety of costs for them. I have
>also noticed that the parts that are used, almost equal up to the
>same amount I could buy one brand new for. When I found this group,
>i figured I would pose the question to all of you...
>
>Is there a way to make a home cnc machine CHEAPLY? I mean for under
>$100 or even $500. If it goes into the thousands, why would I want
>to build one? I know, the same reason you build a bookcase instead
>of buying one - because you can do it, and it is normally better.
>
>Well anyway, that is the main question I had, and hopefully if there
>is a solution, then we can go from there.
>
>Oh - i have seen plans that use a "rotozip" type tool also?? Is this
>really viable? I always thought of using a router in it. Maybe if
>there is a cheap way to build one with a rotozip, maybe someoen could
>give me some info on how the blades react to different hardwoods, and
>how long they would last. I know using a rotozip around the house,
>that the blades do not seem to last very long at all.
>
>OK, enough for now..:) I HOPE someone can help with this problem,
>and find a solution for doing this CHEAPLY.
>
> Thank You
> Mike
>
>
>
>
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Carl Mikkelsen
Oasis Semiconductor, Inc.
201 Jones Road
Waltham, MA 02451
(781) 647 8775