I am building a CNC router and like the simplicity of the jgro design and the advances of the Joe2006 design. However, I don't have access to a CNC machine so the joe2006 design is out of reach, for now. I expect to use this first machine to build a second machine more along the lines of joe2006.
I have a decent workshop: table saw, sliding compound miter, 14" bandsaw, drill press. I also have a very small mill and lathe (Sherline that I picked up at an auction when no one else bid). I would categorize my wood working skills as good but not great. My metal working skills, well, I'm learning...
Anyway, I've been playing around with a design that is fairly similar to jgro and incorporates some of the advances of joe2006. In particular, wider use of torsion boxes and Y/gantry bearings on the outside. I didn't go for a quad rail design as I think that requires more precision than I am up to for now. I've included 2 pictures. Most of the material is 1/2" MDF with 3/4" in a few places. The Z axis assembly is pure jgro. 1" pipe rails for Y and 3/4 for the other two axises - just like jgro. I'll probably use acme 1/2"-10 leadscrews and traditional antibacklash nuts from hdpe/delrin. Not all the fastener holes are in the current design, I'll detail that out when I get closer to final design.
What I'm looking for are any comments on problems to watch out for and suggestions for improvement. I'm concerned that the gantry might be too heavy for the rails. The unsupported rail length is 40.5".
I'm not worried about the electronics and software - I've got that covered.
Thanks in advance
Phil