Has anyone seen this KickStarter project : 5axisMaker ? It's out of England though. Still expensive for my (current) budget, but I definitely 'want' a machine like it ! Interesting parts include : uses aluminum extrusion (not V-slot from what I can see - maybe Mark can work a deal with them ?) uses "open source" 5 axis software (I didn't know there was some) plus their twist for ANY 5-axis ! could build a version using V-slot and a good 5 axis controller (6 drivers since Y needs two steppers) shows a descend Z travel can be achieved - uses a different design though Not so interesting : cost, as listed in KickStarter is still quite high so it can only get higher after KickStarter work area is limited to 40cm x 40cm x 40cm (about 1.3' x 1.3' x 1.3') on base unit substantial increase in price to get a better working volume : 100cm x 100cm x 50cm (much better) Nonetheless, I will give my little bit of contribution ... enough to apparently get all releases of the 5-axis Gcode generator (YES ! ) By the time it comes out (April 2015) I should be more than ready to upgrade myOX to a full 5-axis ... ok, maybe just do a myOX-3D Maybe a few others will be interested in the 5-axis Gcode generator as well, so thought to share the project here
Yep, here's the main thread: http://www.openbuilds.com/threads/just-found-an-interesting-project-that-may-go-to-kickstarter.704/ The general consensus seems to be that the price is crazy talk for what they're actually building (a T-slot cube with a mini OX gantry, basically?), but there's major interest in 5-axis CAM software for fifty quid!
That's what I thought. So I went for the software just in case it works out ... and apparently they have already reached their goal (!) even with 21 days left to go. People are going for it even with the high price tag. There is also this DoughtyDrive which offers plans (about 150$us just for the plans and step by step guide for building an extrusion based 5 axis milling machine. They sell the B/C assembly as well, no price listed (have to email them). The rest could be V-slot and such with probably little need for the plans being offered.
Steppers to worm drives in a simple aluminium enclosure bracket makes sense to me. I'm not even sure it would need buying ($150 for plans sounds like physical products will be equally overpriced!) as long as low-backlash 30:1 worm gears are easily available. Could even put a rotary encoder directly on the output shafts to avoid backlash error.
That does look like a classy bit of kit though, doesn't it? Come on Rob get in there. Maybe make one with Robert, and make a prototype out of Garolite. LOL. I've got complete faith in you two, to get the job done. Gray
I'm also interested in the Kickstarter British machine, but look at the motor (the spindle).... its looks like the BLDC motor from China I have on my quadcopter !!? I will not try anything harder than plastic, or MDF in there. Lets assume the final price is $6000 (for a hobby machine), well, then I rather steal another $4K somewhere for a commercial machine.... or build a 2 x Vslots and try a home brew A and C axis myself on a taller than standard Z. Initially, I was VERY excited when I saw the 5 axis.
I appreciate it is still all early days with this project but I wonder how long the wires from the outrunner would last being bent back an forth like this ?? https://s3.amazonaws.com/ksr/assets...7fe1f198a3ef288f73cc3755_large.gif?1411026484 Tweakie.
This one should be coming to Kickstarter soon and it seems a much more reasonable design. Anticipated price around $3500. Source: http://www.pocketnc.com/products/
I went for the software 'level' as it might be what I need at some point down the road. The machine they have, with some issues as pointed out by others, is way out of my budget no matter what. It is an exiting time for DIYer with these ideas coming down in cost. There are plenty of brushless DC motors being used for spindles. They should have plenty of torque as they can flip a 15+ lb monster truck in an instant. What would worry me more is can they run for hours upon hours without something melting down? Cooling is a major concern. Most R/C applications do not run these motors more than an hour or two with lots of air flowing all around. The CNC application also adds loads of chips and dust ... However, where there is a will, there is a way. Give it time and someone is bound to find the way.
