DIY Lathe Conversion?

[Hdale85]

I'm just curious, I searched around and didn't see much and I know this is the router area but I didn't see much in the lathe area either. Has anyone converted a manual lathe to a CNC? I'm considering getting a 12x20 Jet lathe but I'd like to convert it to a CNC lathe just wondering if this is a hard task. The only thing I can't really think of is how to get the cutter to move.

[ger21]

Are you talking about a wood lathe?

[Hdale85]

Something that would turn wood and aluminum yes.

[CarveOne]

Originally Posted by Hdale85 I'm just curious, I searched around and didn't see much and I know this is the router area but I didn't see much in the lathe area either. Has anyone converted a manual lathe to a CNC? I'm considering getting a 12x20 Jet lathe but I'd like to convert it to a CNC lathe just wondering if this is a hard task. The only thing I can't really think of is how to get the cutter to move.

Lots of metal lathes from the smallest to the larger ones have been converted to CNC operation by hobbyists.

I don't recall seeing a wood lathe CNC conversion though. There is no carriage to drive with stepper motors or servos. Maybe build a robotic arm to hold the chisel?

CarveOne

[MadeInTheShed]

I found this last week while looking for ideas on converting mine.
A simple idea that can be removed and stored out of the way when you want to free hand.
Ive filed this away for future manufacture - once I get my 3 axis sorted.

http://msanfilippo.typepad.com/photo...cnc/index.html

Scroll down to the 'Turtle' attachments.

Jon