My Darth Vader router build

[HereinCS]

Thanks for everyone's help. I'm showing off my first build. Without you guys I still won't know what an x axis is. This is my Darth Vader mini router. Named so because of its some what sinister black appearance. Now waiting for a couple of custom stepper motors from China and we should be up and running.

My plan is to build a 1.2m x 2m router. That's still in the works. It's quite expensive so I build this from all the scrap pieces lying around. Hopefully, it will give me a better understanding of the build and operational process so that my big router and my mill build will go a bit smoother.

[rlwoodjr]

Looks fantastic! I like the black.

[HereinCS]

Thanks. I have a Zen spindle coming. I'm hoping to use it with the same 48v power supply that I'll use for the Gecko g540/stepper motors. Can some one suggest a dc relay that would work with this set up?

[HereinCS]

Finally got the stepper motors and zen motor mounted. The 4th axis trunion table just arrived and will be the last step on the machine itself.

Next will be the electronics. I'll definitely need lots of help.

[neurofen]

nice machine dude

[CNC Lurker]

I'll be interested in seeing a vid of some 4th axis work.

[HereinCS]

I'm still some time away from a fully functioning table. Waiting for my friend machinist to help mount the trunion table, then the stand/electronics still have to go in. There is a youtube video of the table YouTube - New CNC 4th axis Trunnion Table made by HighTechSystems LLC.

[HereinCS]

Most of the panels and electronics are in. Just waiting for a temperature, voltage display, a pmw speed controller then I'm ready to assemble. I do have a question regarding limit switches. I have the one picture below. 2 to each x,y,z axis. First question, does anyone have a schematic that show how to hook these up? I've never seen one like this. Secondly, I have 2 on each axis. Is that how it's done? I see on the g540 schematics that there are only one for each axis.

[CarveOne]

pminmo.com is a good reference site for many things CNC. On the right side of the home page is a list of articles on that site that you will find useful. The article on home and limit switches is here. There are many ways to wire and configure them. Normally closed is the way most people use the switches, though there are differing opinions about it.

CarveOne

[cnctoolman]

I dont know what you are planning on cutting, but I believe you are going to be a little dissapointed with the spindle. A drill chuck just does not offer the rigidity needed to do milling. Yes people have gotten away with with it, but.. be prepared.

[HereinCS]

Well, originally I was going to build a large router. I still am. But I found that due to the lack of experience, I was making too many mistakes. So I figured that I'd build a smaller one simply as a learning exercise. This router is made of mostly scraps that I have from the mistakes that I made in purchasing for the larger router, if that made any sense. At the same time, my wife expressed that she wanted to build miniature furniture models so I decided to make this a really nice router for her, while still retaining my goal, with is to learn how to build and operate these things. She will primary cut wood and plastic so I figure the Zen spindle is enough. If not, I already have Colt router that I can swap in for her.

My 4 x 6, 5 axis router is still coming along. Primarily 8020 for frame, doughty drive, servos, etc....maybe a year from now.

[HereinCS]

Finally finished my machine...except for the limit switches. I have no idea how to run it though. Just bought a license of Mach3. Is there a step by step on what to do to start cutting? My motors are working fine, but I'm stuck on calibrating distance/turn.