Greetings all. This is my first post, though I have been lurking on this forum for awhile admiring all of the CNC builds. A truly impressive variety of creative solutions to CNC!
I am undertaking the design of my first DIY CNC Router. Though this is my first router project, I do have a lot of machinist experience and I have built a fair number of motion control rigs over the years for film and TV work. My goal is to build a medium size, bench top machine that will fit within a 3 foot by 4 foot area (size restrictions in my shop). I already have some linear motion components lying around from old motion control projects so I will integrate those the best way possible.
My biggest indecision is whether to go with a spanning torsion table design, like the JGRO or a simpler design where there is no connection between the Y axis linear bearings. Attached are two designs I've worked out (they are still works in progress, there are a lot of missing details, like motor brackets). The first is based on the JGRO, modified to fit my space and using the linear components I have on hand. The second is the non-spanning table design.
My biggest question is this, am I likely to run into problems trying to drive the Y axis on the second design from only one side? I'll be using 1 inch precision linear rails and bearings. Are gantries built with these as prone to wracking problems as V bearing designs? I suppose I could put drive screws on each side and connect them with a belt but that's a lot of work.
Any advice on the pros and cons of each option would be much appreciated!