I've been trying to come up with a design for a cheap linear motion axis design using skate bearings and belt drive. Ground rods are not too expensive and work well if supported. I can get 1800mm belts for ~£10. The pictures only show one side of what could possibly make one axis.
All are welcome to comment and improve on the idea. Hopefully we can come up with a good design between us.
My basic requirements were that it be:
1. adjustable
2. cheap
3. rigid
4. Leave room for rod supports
The basic idea uses bearings mounted on small dovetail slides that can be adjusted and then locked using some kind of bolt and gib arrangement. The dovetails would probably require the use of a mill. The models are not super accurate and don't show all bolts etc...Just wanted to get the idea of the carriage design across.
So jump in and let me know what you think. Good, bad, don't bother, whatever.
Regards Terry.....