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...
Before any detailed design work can be started there are plenty of big trades to make in the overall design of the router. What will the axis stackup look like? What will the workpiece clamping method be? What will the...
It is tempting to skip directly to designing a CNC router that meets my specifications, but there are tons of existing products and projects on the internet attempting to solve nearly the same problem. Even if I justify building a...
Most robotics hobbyists are aware of what inexpensive and easy fabrication options they have available to them and tend to design as many components as possible in their projects to make use of them. A designer with access to a...