Re: Retail, Low cost CNC

Structural: the rigid structural framework needed to provide
[accuracy] stability. The frame prevents took cutter chatter and a
base for the slides and screws. Just a small difference, but
although the frame can be a detriment to accuracy is does no provide
it.
work surface: aluminum for lubricant drainage, clamping system vacuum
clamping
system, sacrificial layer.

Linear slides: provides accurate linear movement on axes. There are
2 common and up to 5 typical axes on the machines we use.

Transmission: that which converts motor power to movement of the
axes. worm gears, rack and pinion, belt ball screws, steppers

Electronics :
Subgroup power : steppers, servos, drivers, encoders. controllers
Subgroup enhancements : wiring, , emergency stop switch, soft and
hard limit switches, wiring, wire guides. These are not required for
operation and are not critical in machine abilities.


Software
Subgroup CAM software
Subgroup conversion software
Subgroup tool path and optimization software

Strictly and only CAM software is required all the others are
enhancements. Many people will code by hand or in direct G-Code
software so do not need conversion. Tool Path software may be an
additional option if the basic g-code program does not provide it.

Head : Laser, plasma, water jet, router, mill, inkjet, parts
clamps. These machines run from cutting machines to build up
machines to placement machines. Flux dispenser and component
placement for pcbs would be a build up type machine.

Accessories: tool changers, different spindles, vacuum clamp.

Assembly :

Assembly is the hard part. You can take $100 of parts and make a
pile of junk or a close tolerance machine depending on your skill
level. Although every part for a machine can be purchased, some
assembly will be required somewhere before the user starts making
parts.

I deleted the table as I feel it is part of the frame. The two are
too interconnected to separate them.

A added head as the thing that does the work is the key for the
entire need of a machine.

A hot wire cutter has a completely different head than a laser or
mill.

Dave