RE: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Electronic Lead Screw & Power Cross Feed | Poor Man's CNC ?

Hi Bob,

You make an excellent case for an Electronic leadscrew! Even 'tho I'm
coming from a CNC solution on both my Sherline mill and lathe, I can
certainly see your point. You just want to "soup-up" your lathe, not change
to CAD/CAM/CNC to make your parts.

You've mentioned the FROG; as the Frog can drive large stepper driver
(Gecko), I suggest you consider adding it that way. A Frog for a big lathe!


I understand the owner of the Frog business is no longer wishing or able to
consider making frogs, but that some are still available. THIS product
should serve as a starting point (if not a solution) for the E-leadscrew
project, in my opinion. Perhaps a technology transfer is in order?

But don't get me wrong, I LOVE having CNC on my lathe as well! I can and DO
"drive it" from the keyboard, either by MDI (Manual Data Entry) or the jog
keys. Just me! At first all I wanted was a glorified power feed, but I
soon came to appreciate being able to "command" the axis around from
keyboard commands. Then when I needed a "fish belly" contour for a steam
engine piston rod, well... perfect for CNC!

Alan KM6VV

> [mailto:CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of BobWarfield
> Subject: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Electronic Lead Screw & Power Cross Feed |
> Poor Man's CNC ?
>
> I think the CNC setup is actually considerably more complex than
> what is contemplated in the strictest sense of an electronic
> leadscrew and I'll tell you why. It all sounds like a case of "Gee,
> if I have to hook up a stepping motor anyway, why not just go CNC?"
> However, let's look at a couple of different reasons why that is not
> really the case.

<SNIP>