Well, I've been reading, absorbing, and designing since January, and I think it's time to start my build!!! Here are my design specs:
Machine Type: 3 Axis Router for milling wood and aluminum
Materials: Steel tubing and aluminum stock
Table: Piece of heavy steel door and MDF
Table Size: 36" x 48" (32" x 41" cutting area)
Motors: 425 oz-in steppers 200 steps/rev
Rails: 1/2" OD precision with Frelon lined linear bearings
Driver: Xylotex 3 axis kit
Lead Screws: 1/2-8 2 start (4 turns per inch, or 0.250 lead)
Software: Mach 3 and V-Carve
Spindle: Dewalt 2.25hp Router
Here's a rendering of my build in Inventor. Haven't added the motors or the leadscrews yet as I have not yet ordered my motion components. Designed the overall concept in AutoCAD and transferred profiles to Inventor. Great software for visualization and ongoing design changes!