Bear,
For your application you only need three axis.
I would not convert the wood lathe to cnc however it is possible.
You could modify your lathe and add a column.
The column would become your Z Axis.
The long Axis would become X and the spindle would be your A axis.
The spindle would also need to be driven by a stepper motor and a pulley reduction system.
You would be much better off if you just purchased a Taig CNC ready mill and added a Sherline 4th axis rotary and have a running machine.
In order to find the surface shape or contour of your product you could digitize the X Axis or a much more simple method would be to only engrave on the part of the duck call where the taper is not severe and use a spring loaded engraver that would ride on the surface of the part.
The Taig with the rotary axis will run you about $2,000.00
You will need software that has a wrap function if you want to engrave around the duck call.
Attempting to save money recycling the wood lathe most likely wont be a savings in the end.
You could also use the Taig to make new duck calls.
Hope this has answered some of your questions.
Jeff Alessi  |