Custom CNC Router Project
The final mechanical system to design is the mounting structure that attaches the spindle to the 3-Axis motion system. The most important features are the provisions to allow the tramming (slight X/Y tilting) required to align the spindle perpendicularly to...
So far most of the engineering and analysis has been done on the moving subassemblies within the router (gantry beam, gantry carriage, spindle carriage). However, the structure that supports all of the moving subassemblies is just as important to the...
The control system for a CNC router encompasses not only the numeric controller that plans the motions, but also the motor drivers, power supplies, limit switches, circuit protection, and cabling that connect them all together. From voltages to protocols all...
Stiffness is possibly the most important characteristic of a machine tool. It not only impacts toolpath accuracy (because the tool and machine deflect under the cutting load and acceleration) but also the surface finish, cut quality, and motion control stability...
The range of motion of a CNC axis is limited by three progressively more restrictive methods: mechanical hard stops, electrical limit switches, and software limit positions. Each method eats away at the usable range of motion for an axis but...
After first doing an initial exploratory design on your own you can be more prepared to analyze other designs solving similar problems because you have a better understanding of the challenges involved. The Avid CNC Pro4824 is the most similar...
After determining the type, size, and spacing of the major components in the router (bearings, screws, motors) they can be laid out in a 3D model where connection options become more obvious. Because mechanical design is a creative process, I...
In the router architecture post I decided to use linear rail (as opposed to round shaft or V rollers) to support all of my axes due to the high stiffness and load bearing capacity. Using outputs of other analyses that...
Now that the general layout of the machine has been determined and the target force, speed, and power requirements for each axis have been calculated, the power transmission components for each axis can be designed. Lead screw length, diameter, and...
Once the general architecture of the CNC has been determined the initial dynamic analysis of each axis can be done. Motors and power transmission components should all be sized just big enough to work together to meet the requirements of...