Nod, your original question was related to "mount the caliplers to the axes and make the mechanical prototype", so I thought that's where the hangup was. Milling a precise fit for the LCD, PCB, and zebra strip could also be challenging.
My point was to start on the harder parts of the problem to ensure that they're solvable before progressing to the simpler parts. As it stands now, I'd try crafting a simple 1 LCD temporary holder for the LCD, PCB, and zebra strip. Then try connecting over very short wires for testing. Once that's working, I'd build the P->S->P circuit and test it over short wires. If that works I'd test it over long wires. If that all works, you're at the point of looking for a final mounting solution for your LCDs and calipers.
Anyways, I am interested to see how you make out. If I ever get around to building my cheap DRO using serial LCDs instead of more expensive LEDs, I'll share it. I'm still debating if I'll build it though, as I might just go straight to CNC and skip DRO.
D.
PS. I have one of those plastic calipers....got it at the canadian equivalent of HF. I'll point out that the accuracy printed on the back is only .01" (HF's listing is wrong), and even if you trust that, it's not very accurate for a lot of work. I bought mine and pretty much gave up on it...the cheap metal calipers for $15 are a much better deal IMHO.  |