My first build - KRouter

[ticica]

None of my family members was particularly impressed, so I decided I'd give it a shot here...

All three axes are THK KRxx elements. While not inexpensive (each of the KR elements can cost from $100 up on eBay), it is fairly easy to build.
I only made 10 parts to put it together:
Nema 23 adapters for Y and Z axes (X came with a motor and a coupling)
Y to X attachment plate
Z to Y attachment (an angle block with some holes)
2 parts for the spindle holder (the spindle assembly was bought on eBay)
4x aluminum extrusions for the base

Well, it cuts plastic (the video shows a 0.3mm depth of cut, 1/8" end mill). It probably could do some engraving or PCB routing, as well. I did not measure deflection, but it feels much more rigid than I originally expected.

Cheers,
Ivan.

[jalessi]

Ivan,

Is there anything supporting the X axis on the opposite end or is it cantilevering over the span?

It looks like its cutting the circle pretty well.


Jeff...

[vlmarshall]

Interesting build, nice work. Start making parts!

[ticica]

Jeff, the X axis is bolted to the base. I guess you are asking about the Y axis (the one holding the Z axis). That one is not supported on the other side. I wanted it to be able to engrave on the edges of large sheets of wood (or picture frames, for example), so I left one side open...

Thanks for the comment, vlmarshall.

[vlmarshall]

I wanted it to be able to engrave on the edges of large sheets of wood (or picture frames, for example), so I left one side open...

Nice idea. Does it deflect under the weight of the spindle?
Edit: Nevermind, I just remembered you saying "I did not measure deflection."

[cheetahcnc]

Cool setup! A large commercial Biesse B7 CNC Router uses the cantilever design, similar to what you are doing. It sure keeps the costs down, but the large part workability is even better.