The "Ultimate Tabletop Machine" for Woodworkers

[IslaWW]

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[IslaWW]

Someone must have thought of another option to add by now?????

[Rcnewcomb]

I can see strengths and limitations of of either an on-the-table or a beside-the-table 4th axis.

On-the-table would require more Z clearance which introduces rigidity problems for the Z axis, but reduces the space needed for the machine in the X or Y dimension.

Beside-the-table requires extra desk or floor space for the machine, but does not require the extra Z height. I guess my preference would be for this arrangement, but I am open to either option.


Are there control systems that can recognize if/when steps are lost and then reorient itself to a known position before it starts cutting again?

An ultimate machine would never need maintenance, or at least be self-lubricating and self-cleaning. It would keep track of hours and play in the system and let me know when and which parts need replacing.

How about an optional air drill or laser that could rotate 90 degrees to drill holes either from the top or on the sides of material...

[4DThinker]

Another option? How about using the extra heat created during a cut to keep my coffee warm?

[ger21]

Are there control systems that can recognize if/when steps are lost and then reorient itself to a known position before it starts cutting again?

You can add encoders to your steppers, and monitor and compare the encoder position to the commanded position. If they differ, then you stop the machine, and re-home it. You can do this with a few of the hobby controls, with a little programming.

[Leo]

Do we need Heidenhein Glass Scales

Just thinking accuracy here.

https://www.google.com/search?q=heidenh ... 28&bih=720

[IslaWW]

Leo...
Love your sense of humor!!

Of course we do. But the labor to calibrate them on machines with .002" (at best by their own admission) no load positional accuracy to be used by operators with usually .010-.015 accuracy on material that will most likely move .010-.020 after cutting will be expensive!

[Rcnewcomb]

Is it a sign that I'm a nerd because I was reading up on linear encoders earlier this week?

[IslaWW]

Randall...
A clear and obvious sign! Step away from the internet!

[TSM2018]

I'm probably not at the apprentice level in 3 months, but I would ask for 5 gantry(s) and (5) routers. Automatic tool changes are way too much money, Taig Tools has the concept for their CNC lathe. (I have a Taig CNC Mill)
I know how much a router costs; I would just need a longer bed to park the other gantry(s) when not in use. You have a much smoother flow of machining time without tool changes, and my lazy attitude about tool bit changes improves my designs. I want credit for the concept and get first dibs on testing. We can let Vectric be first to program.

No time to file a utility patent if someone else hasn't already done this. If you make a million bucks on this, I'll send you my address and you can send me a machine to play with.
If I'm not first for concept to post, then shoot me down tomorrow. I'll be at the USER Group Meeting in 2018... Leo is probably going to tell me I'm too late.

Cheers!

[Leo]

What about linear motors

I am sure we can get a 24 x 36 machine to cost $75,682.56 - Base price

[Leo]

Leo...
Love your sense of humor!!

Of course we do. But the labor to calibrate them on machines with .002" (at best by their own admission) no load positional accuracy to be used by operators with usually .010-.015 accuracy on material that will most likely move .010-.020 after cutting will be expensive!

I have not looked it up but I am pretty sure the glass scales are better than .002

I can position my grinder to .000010 (10 millionths) with glass scales

[IslaWW]

Leo...

That is a lot tighter tolerance than I could ever achieve. I will have to live with a few thousandths that I can get off a router.

The list of options really did well on a parallel thread on Sawmill Creek forum: https://sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php ... oodworkers

80 replies and over 5000 views. Instead of a tabletop, which would limit features, especially number of tools in the rack and ability to install a vertical machining plate at the front of the machine for end mortising, etc., I opted for a heavy duty floor standing model. This should be a very nice package for luthiers, discriminating hobbyists and pro users that can take advantage of a small footprint. ATC spindle is standard

[LittleGreyMan]

Gary,

Your choice makes sense. A rigid CNC of this size can in fact no more be called a tabletop as it requires a dedicated cabinet. So making the step for a floor standing model sounds natural.

You'll have a marketing issue: catching attention of people searching for a tabletop machine before they realize this.

[IslaWW]

LGM...
Thanks for the words of advice. If required, marketing will mention "The Ultimate Woodworkers Machine", eliminating the "tabletop" verbiage. This may not be relevant as most of this years frame production has been presold and I have had to increase the original order size in order to have one for myself.