Re: X-Y Table, Rotary Table for CNC INFO

Larry,

Over the years I've seen several X-Y tables doing exactly what
you're suggesting. It's surprising more hobby CNC'ers haven't gone
this route since it's relatively easy to implement.

Two of the most well known lathe systems of this type are made by
Omniturn and Upgrade Technologies (Upgrade's name may have been
changed). These are configured software-wise as lathes but I know
of at least one Omniturn slide being used on a mill table. Both
these manufacturers use linear rails as opposed to dovetail ways.

Years ago there was a company in San Pedro (near LA) making a
generic stepper driven X-Y slide of cast iron with dovetails ways.
Software was provided for use either on a mill table or on a lathe.

In my shop I have a linear slide with a rotary head mounted on it.
Both are stepper driven. I set this up because my Haas head would
only allow a one thousand degree move per instruction and I needed
to cut a helix with more turns. I have plans to put this on the
table of my tool and cutter grinder for re-fluting end mills once I
solve the shielding problem of the grinder grits.

Doug




--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, Larry Braden <lbraden@c...>
wrote:

> Hello Gang,
>
> Seems to me that a small CNC X-Y and rotary table setup could be

plopped

> down right on the table of a mill rather than doing a conversion

on the

> mill itself. While the attention given to leadscrew issues and
> electronics is important, right now I'm greatly interested in

whether it

> would be economical to build precision tables for CNC and would
> appreciate hearing of any websites or publications that deal with

design

> and construction issues with tables, bearings, guides, etc.used in

CNC

> setups.
>
> I have looked at the linear motion catalogs of the major vendors,

and

> have a clue as to the design issues involved. I'm more interested

in

> info that could be used with adequate tools and skills in the home

or

> small business shop. A $23,000 HAAS rotary table is a bit out of my
> league. :)
>
>
> Thanks,
>
> Larry Braden
> Catonsville, MD