Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Steel plate for hexapod bed

If I were going to build a Hexapod, I'd use a welded frame construction due to its "lanky" design. Use some 3X3X1/4 w/t or 2X2X1/4 w.t square tubing and build a hexagon and at the intersections of this base weld an upright riser to attach the 6 actuators atop of each. Then tie all risers together at their tops with anything i.e. water pipe, conduit, etc. Torsional stresses are going to be the biggest issue and its inherent inability to apply much force to the workpiece, the table/ work surface could be pratically any type of sheet material (plywood even) inset and bolted into the tubular hexagon base. That would be the cheapest route, just some tubing and a welder. Use gussets at the joints and it would be light, strong and rigid. Just another alternative. Granite surface plates are very heavy and not very durable, they break easily. 1"thick plate base is redundant because the machine will never exert those types of forces, 1/4" plate is too flexible.

Ron



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