The CNC dome project

[chadwiggan]

My CNC dome router/ engraver.
I originally designed it to fit a plexi-dome over the top. I needed something beautiful enough to sit on my desk in my apartment cuz im running out of garage space. I drew the whole design in 3d program and assembled it first. I would be happy to upload all the dxfs and files if anyone is up for the challenge. I cut it all on a laser at work and used our roller and press brake to form it. Started running out of money so i couldnt put the ballscrews on that i wanted...ugh
http://www.cnczone.com/gallery/showfull.php?photo=5886



more photos in my gallery

[Hdale85]

Think we need a video of this one...

[chadwiggan]

wish i had a video camera. it run quite nice considering i had to use cheap all thread for lack of money. its posted in the classifieds now. if it doesnt sell i will probably upgrade the leadscrews this winter and add the vaccum table ive been wantin to design

[Switcher]

Now that's just art!

Very cool machine design!

Please post the files, I'm sure someone else would like to build this. Is it running Mach3?

[chadwiggan]

Now that's just art!

Very cool machine design!

Please post the files, I'm sure someone else would like to build this. Is it running Mach3?

yes, it is running on mach 3. Amazing software i think. I tried others but the motor tuning on mach 3 worked very well with my controller. Ill get some files on here as soon as i can thanks for the compliment

[chadwiggan]

here are all the dxf files for my machine that i have. keep in mind alot of these are the flat patterns for the parts before they are formed. Im trying to upload a zip file of the alibre 3d files for anyone that wants em but it keeps failing. ill work on it. what would be the best file extension to convert the 3d files to so that most 3d programs will view them

[mpstech]

That is an awsome design. Keep at it !

What is that you are using for a spindle ?
I'm looking for something as my dremel has about bit the dust(er a chips).

[chadwiggan]

That is an awsome design. Keep at it !

What is that you are using for a spindle ?
I'm looking for something as my dremel has about bit the dust(er a chips).

thanks mpstech
I really try to think outside the box with my designs. Its brings up issues that normally wouldnt come up when building a more traditional looking homebrew. Thats the part i love, I like solving the problems that come up.

im using a trim router for a spindle thats hooked up to a variable speed control knob(on the right top panel). it works very well for me i like having that adjustment right there on my base

[chadwiggan]

these are my 3d part files that i created on alibre. i dont know if they will be viewable on other programs but maybe one of the computer guys on here will convert em if u dont have alibre. It is a free program if u download the express version last i knew. There are 4 zip files.( 3d assembly,- 3d part1a,b,c- 3d part2, -and 3d part3a,b,c) in order to see the 3d assemblies you would need to download the other part zips as they pull part files from those zips to create the assembly. Please dont take advantage of these files. I put them out there for fellow members that would enjoy the project for personal use

[RiseUp]

At first glance, I have to admit that I thought the Y axis was curved, and that the Z slid in an arch along the Y, while the X axis simply rotated the the whole arched Y axis. Kind of like an integrated 4th axis, but it would allowhalf of a sphere of movement. Interesting concept to think about...I wonder if mach3 could handle those calculations:P
This is an absolutely beautiful design, and I'm sure with a Plexiglass dome, it would be a very unique machine.
You, sir, are an artist.
Thank you for the inspiration.
GREAT work.
Keep it up!
-RiseUp