I was thinking about this basic style of y-axis. I'm thinking drill rod for the long pieces and mounting them with jgro's end blocks. It would be easy enough to attach (weld) an adjustable center mount for flex.
I would use plate for the sides and make an aluminum box for the cross pieces. A boxed square opening could be easily put in the cross pieces then the tubes filled with expanding foam. Gusset plates would go on the outside to strengthen the gantry.
I don't know and would appreciate comments on whether it would be better to use a moving table or moving gantry for strength. I know the moving table takes up more room. A 4 foot span would use just over 8' with the moving table, and just over 6' with a stationary. |