OSHW-GVCS-CNC Torch/Router Table-v3.0

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Introduction

http://www.screencast.com/t/7Ez7vdZS . I have recently joined OSE and am creating this page for documenting OSHW-GVCS-CNC Torch/Router Table-v3.0 I am designing a new table based on things learned from building numerous cnc related projects. I intend to work with the folks that are developing the steppernug controller to make an open source and affordable cnc xyz table that can accommodate various tools including, Plasma torch, oxy/acetylene torch, router, welders, pen plotter, tangential knife, drag engraver, plastic extruder,paint sprayer, ink jet, water jet,sewing machine, sand blaster and in addition the stepper/controller technology can be used to control many useful movements such as solar collector aiming for focusing and bouncing sun light where needed. Many new application will present themselves as the project moves forward.

Device Dashboard

As of Feb.19 2013 I will devote the majority of my time to develop a cnc table using my experience with casting and machining. This will be an initial 30 day sprint to prove concept and have a prototype for testing. The goal is to cast aluminum units that are basically ribbed triangular modules that will able to joint together and form structural members for many purposes. Also I will use this project to demonstrate/integrate sound metal foundry practices into the OSE GVCS workflow.

I have started gathering items to build a waste oil fueled aluminum melting furnace with approx. capacity of 50 lbs. of scrap Aluminum. There are numerous examples of these types of furnaces on the web and youtube but one of the most thorough books I have seen is by Stephen Chastain's book Small Foundry Furnaces Vol. 1 and can be seen at http://stephenchastain.com.

I will take a slightly different approach but the theory is the same. I will then proceed to design, in Solidworks cad,the modules and use the resulting files to generated cnc G-code for routing regular foam insulation, found at any hardware store. The forms thus generated will be used in the lost foam process http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lost-foam_casting to produce the raw castings. Many photos, videos, cad files, material lists to follow.

Hardware and Software License

CC-BY-SA