Newbie- Build CNC Router?

[jeffmorris]

I would like to build a small CNC router. I found plans and instructions on these web sites:
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-...-Cheaply-and-/
http://www.solsylva.com/cnc/1aplansoverview.html
I wish to use ready-to-use drive box and stepper motors like the kit shown on this web site:
http://www.xylotex.com/3DB-116.htm
I also have Vex Robotics set and I tried to build a CNC router using the set but I was not happy with the plastic gears. If I use the set to build a CNC router, and use the drive box and stepper motors, I will have to make parts that fit the stepper motors, bearings, lead screws, and pipes to the frame of the CNC router. The image shows a partly-built CNC router frame. Any suggestions?

[Mr.Chips]

You are right the plastic gears would be an issue. How about some more pictures?

Take a look at the Probotics equipment they have one configuration that is very well suited to the new builder.

This particular kit (currently their other kits don't offer this protection) has safeguards against shorts and open circuits that would fry a Xylotex driver board, I know I learned the hard way. The kit is $100 less expensive than Xylotex and has 200 OzIn steppers, but you would need a case.

They also have a RFIsolated breakout board I would suggest using it rather than the one in the kit, they would exchange it and just pay a few dollars more. This would protect your PC from stray voltages going back into it.
Here is the link to the kit.

http://www.probotix.com/3_axis_stepp...or_driver_kit/

Good luck and keep the pictures and updates comming.

[jeffmorris]

I have been reading the thread at this link:
Has Anyone Built From David Steels Sosylva Plans?
I would like to build the machine that sits on top of wood to be routed.

[Mr.Chips]

Originally Posted by jeffmorris I have been reading the thread at this link: Has Anyone Built From David Steels Sosylva Plans? I would like to build the machine that sits on top of wood to be routed.

That design is very flexible in what you can do with it, and where you can take it.

[jeffmorris]

I looked at the 17-inch by 20-inch blue machines on Solsylva's website and my machine that I was building. I think that it's possible for me to turn my machine upside down. What about lead screws, lead screw nuts, bearings, etc?

[jeffmorris]

My CNC machine built so far. I didn't attach the Z-axis carriage to the Y-axis carriage yet. I didn't attach motor and gears to the Z-axis carriage yet. I may use a Dremel motor tool as a spindle.

[jeffmorris]

I use linear sliders sold by the company that makes the Vex Robotics Set in my CNC machine but they're not good enough because they are either too loose or too tight. Which is better?
Round or Square Tubes and ball bearings?
L-shaped metal pieces and ball bearings?
Drawer slides with ball bearings?
Should the tubes or L-shaped metal pieces be made of aluminum or steel?
Link to Vex Robotics website: http://www.vexlabs.com/vex-robotics-all-products.shtml

[Mr.Chips]

Originally Posted by jeffmorris My CNC machine built so far. I didn't attach the Z-axis carriage to the Y-axis carriage yet. I didn't attach motor and gears to the Z-axis carriage yet. I may use a Dremel motor tool as a spindle.

You are comming right along.
How about a front and side shot.
Thanks

[jeffmorris]

My CNC machine is almost finished but due to its size, the working area is about 6-1/2 inches by 7-1/2 inches and the machine itself is about 18 inches by 21 inches by 19-1/2 inches. Should I scrap this machine and build a new one following plans for one of the CNC machines from Solsylva?

[jeffmorris]

After finding out that a few people built CNC machines using Lego parts, I started building one based on the Solsylva plans for 17X20 CNC machine but I need more small tires. I ordered the tires from an online store.

[jeffmorris]

I got the Solsylva plans in the mail today. The overhead leadscrew machine should be easier to build than the other machines. I assume that all MDF or plywood parts are 3/4" thick. The material list on page 2-2 is a bit confusing. How do I know how many bolts, nuts, screws, bearings, each, in different sizes that I need to buy? I'm not sure if plastic sheets can be used instead of MDF or plywood sheets. I'm not sure if I can get most of the materials from Home Depot or Lowe's stores. Any suggestions?

[jeffmorris]

I finished building a small version of CNC machine using Lego parts. I didn't put motors on it yet. I may start building the 17X20 CNC machine with overhead leadscrew following the Solsylva plans. I will build the wooden parts from 3/4" plywood.