Together with the tentative parts list uploaded yesterday, these pictures should give a good idea what is required to make this machine, if you are a qualified “maker” or if you can get help with the machining. A number of people have expressed interest in building one of these. Depending on the skills of the maker, it should be possible to make this their own unique custom machine. The simple design allows for a lot of flexibility. It can be as fancy or simple as you want. This simple stand design works well and is very stable but there are many other possibilities including fixed mounting to a bed frame or floor standing tripod. I made a stand from an inexpensive engine stand that also works very well. I think there might be a picture of that in a previous blog entry.
I also want to make something like 6 to 12 that can be linked together with common control. Before I make the investment I want to figure out a way to use them and film the event.
full_machine_side_1
full_machine_side_2
joystick_controller
power_supply_electronics_box_power_entry
drive_wheel_limit_switches
clamp_lever
base
two_knob_control
quick_connect_assembly
power-electronics_box_signal_side
Hello! Great Job.
Before you use the Nema 34 engine , now NEMA23. Why have you change it?. Tell me what qualities should have the engine for this machine? What oz-in is enough? I found couple good engines, but i dont realise do they feet or not.
Thanx!
I am now using the nema 34, this is mainly because it has a 1/2″ shaft and stronger bearings. I do not actually need the additional power. A smaller motor with less inertial mass would actually be faster but would require an outboard bearing for the shaft to support the load. If you can make a support for the end of the motor shaft accurately, that would actually be better. Here is the motor I am now using:
http://www.automationtechnologiesinc.com/products-page/stepper-motors/nema-34-high-torque-stepper-motor-single-shaft