CNC Torch Table

Overview




The CNC Torch Table is a table capable of cutting designs out of metal with a 2-axis torch controlled by computer.

The CNC Torch Table provides a quicker solution for cutting sheet metal, especially into intricate patterns that are difficult to cut by hand.

Description


Product Ecology


Made with
 * - Steel
 * - Precision Guides, bearings

Creates
 * - Plates, holes
 * - Holes
 * QA Plates

See Product Ecologies for more information.

Components

 * Motors
 * XYZ Table
 * Frame
 * Torch

Status
Prototype I Currently being used in experimental production runs. Tighter integration of Digital Fabrication is being researched as is the software toolchain (which is a current bottleneck).

Prototype II


 * First step: perfection of mechanical design for replicability to 1/32" over 4x8' area
 * Need open source controller, end stops, and z height automation/detection.
 * We could use existing structure, with modifications. Right now we use gear rack. We can simplify the carriage structure.
 * If we want to go all out - we could use full gas flow control - but that is probably beyond the scope of the present program - as it would require expensive parts until we can manufacture them ourselves.
 * Open source stepper motors would be a good addition - if we could find somebody to design/fab them - that would be great.
 * Computer vision for fully automated cutting would be the last step.
 * Next steps: stiffening frame design to accommodate router heads
 * Interview with owner of Ben's excellent DIY table setup in Smithville, TX:
 * CandCNC setup used by Ben (dragon-cut 620 AIO); $1478

Suggested steps from Luke Iseman
video of ben's setup:http://opensourceecology.org/wiki/CNC_Torch_Table photos of OSE's current table, including measurements: http://opensourceecology.org/wiki/Torch_Table_Build DIY standalone sensor ideas: http://opensourceecology.org/wiki/Sensing_Distance_from_Work_Piece. note particularly the circuit i found for an independent z-axis control CNC circuit mills: http://opensourceecology.org/wiki/CNC_Circuit_Mill . comparison of existing kits, and updated parts list on mantis 9 ( http://opensourceecology.org/wiki/Mantis_9 )

recommended next steps: 1. get the candcnc.com 's dragon-cut 620-4 and implement on the current table. utilize your same bearing setup for the z-axis. 2. build the mantis 9, but use the snaplock electronics.

=See Also=
 * Torch Table Build Prototype 1 Completion
 * Torch Table Specifications
 * Open_Source_Torch_Table_Prototype_II


 * Blog Post
 * Wikipedia: CNC
 * Torch