[cncadmin]

Anyone know anything about this http://www.doughtydrive.com/products.html look like a really cool idea.

[turmite]

Hi Paul,

Yes, I can comment. I bought a set of these heads a little over a year ago but have yet to install them due to an intermittent problem with my machine. I can tell you they are very well made and I can vouch for Colin. He is a stand up guy to do business with. Talks a little funny!

I hope to install these soon and if you like I can then come back and do a write up.....or what ever it is called!

Mike

ps if you want to see how strong they are, watch the video of the carving of the pineapple!

[james70818]

Mike,

What is the cost of his B/C drives? Really a neat idea.

James

[newbrand]

I would also be interested in the cost and seeing how you implement it. These have been around awhile but I haven't seen any in action except on his site.

[Robert M]

I find it....."strange"....that it is seldom seen on any web forum.
Maybe it just haven't reach...buyers ?!

Anyone care to join and let us know there experience with it ?? (group)

[Christian Knüll]

Well, I think at least for 5 axis the main issues is Software... there is just no affordable, general use 5-axis CAM program.
This (and the insane amount of time and training required to use a 5-axis CAM properly) prevents the use for hobbyist or small business applications.

On the other hand: if you really need 5-axis machining you're usually going to buy a complete solution instead of retrofitting a 3-axis machine.

[mcphill]

There are now "affordable" 5-axis CAM programs. 2 that come to mind are SprutCAM and BobCAD. I don't consider the CNC Toolkit to be a viable option as while it is free, it is also very difficult to figure out how to use...

[ger21]

I find it....."strange"....that it is seldom seen on any web forum.
Maybe it just haven't reach...buyers ?!

Anyone care to join and let us know there experience with it ?? (group)

I think the main issue that you don't see any is the cost of them. They aren't cheap. I believe a set is well upwards of $2000.

And very few people really need a 5 axis machine. Most that think they do, think they can build one for $1000.

[Robert M]

I get what your saying Gerry.....BUT....surly a few where sold....even if it goes at ....3k for a 5axis attachment !!

[mcphill]

I am close to purchasing a B/C setup but the complete lack of input from current owners is a bit of a "red flag" for me as well. Especially after being "suckered" in to buying a Mikini - I thought I did more than enough due diligence on that purchase, but in retrospect it was NOT the best choice!

[newbrand]

I have 5 axis software through a University so that's not an issue for me. I realize a good 5 axis will cost a minimum of 10,000 but that's cheap compared to buying one. ShopBot has a 5 axis that seems comparable to the doughty drives but those are well over 30,000 and I prefer to build a machine myself so I can tailor it too my needs, that and I don't have 30,000. The machine plans Doughty sells seem like a decent set up and he's integrated it well with the b/c head. I posted here hoping that someone would share their experience with either his machine design or his drives. My research since posting hasn't come up with any more user experiences but if the drives are as well build as he says then they are worth his asking price. I also haven't seen any user experience with the 5 axis ShopBot, I really think their aren't many non commercial 5 axis user out there. As Gerry alluded too, there aren't that many people with the need or knowledge to use a 5 axis machine.

[ger21]

There is a recent thread here about a router using a Doughty drive for a 4th axis.
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/diy_cn...ty_drives.html

[newbrand]

Thanks Gerry, I had forgotten about that one. I've been leaning towards more of a dedicated 4th axis machine instead of 5 as it just seems a lot simpler to build and program. I think there are a lot more economical solutions then using a Doughty drive but the link you posted is impressive.

[Tomax]

You can read from post #10 here: http://www.cnczone.com/forums/cnc_wo...ol_design.html

[MegaMoog]

I finally have taken the TIME to get my Mini Trunion up n running!!! LOL Using it as a (3+2) type for now! It can really zip around if needed, but I have mine on slow for now!
Using my shark with the drive with mach 3 & pbj 2013 screen set. Workin out all the mechanics n wiring n settings. With a few tweaks we will be makin some more dust! Turnin blocks into cars n trucks!
Just luvin it

MegaMoog
Attachment 290558

https://youtu.be/xld1hL_GcEw

[yohudi]

Hi there,

re: Colins drives...

I have a BC head and two mini drives.... They are not a cheap solution.. quality seldom is... but there's no question in respect of rheir ability to do the business..

See

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLz9...FrpeXxhgnXwOuc

and

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TrM...bYH0wkxKSCErKp


Toolpaths created with cnc_toolkit


Hope it helps

Danny

[mcphill]

Thanks for those examples! I have been looking at those drives for years, just the cost has made me try to think of workarounds. He doesn't do himself any favors with his website - lack of updates, and no videos that show the complex machining as shown above. Thanks again, and I need to consider this path much more seriously now...

[Splint]

Is there any information on the drive mechanism which gives zero backlash? Is it spring loaded split gears which are zero backlash up to a certain force?

[louieatienza]

I sent a few emails via the website with absolutely no response.

[Tomax]

If there is an interest, I have (used) Daughty B/C drive/head for sale ... send PM.