3 Axis Machine

Overview

I'm in the process of designing a "Universal Dream Maker" aka a machine where parts come alive. While at MIT I made a small XYZ machine to teach 2.75 Precision Machine Design Student how to incorporate analysis and machine elments into the development of a simple XYZ machine. I designed the power electronics components and made it work using Labview. In the process of designing the Universal Dream Maker, I am also evaluating a low costs CNC router, and creating a general approach to design your own machine using engineering principles.

Universal Dream Maker

Current Status: Designing & Analyzing.

Low Cost CNC Router

With the growth of the maker movement, a plethora of CNC Milling machines have entered the market. On the low cost end: SainSmart Genmitsu CNC 1810-PRO Router Kit (~$180) and MYSWEETY DIY CNC Router kit 3018 GRBL (~$200). On the high cost end: Axiom Precision AR4 ($6.0k). Here is a link for a more comprehensive list (https://all3dp.com/1/best-diy-cnc-router-kit/). I purchased the MYSWEETY DIY CNC Router shown below and assembled using a right angle precion ground block and a 1/2/3 block. You can do it with a Quick Square Aluminum Carpetneter's square or preferably a 12 inch combination Square. The goal is to show the pro's and con's of the low cost existing design and to quantify the precision and accuracy of the unit that can be obtained.

Out of the Box

Out of the Box Photo.

Personal Upgrades

Unit with my Personal Upgrades

Initial Prototype

At the time I made this prototype I was a teachers assistant for 2.75 Precision Machine Design. I used the prototype to go over kinematic couplings, tolerances, backlach, Occam's razor, constraints, and design for manufacturing. I then used designed the power electronics as part of the power electronics course 2.131. The prototype is a small bench level CMM machine to help me acquire the skills in electronics and motor controls. 

Prototype

Photo of XYZ CMM prototype

Components

CAD of components for the XYZ machine

Next Level

I'm actively collecting components for a larger 2ft x 3 ft table unit. Harvesting from printers, scanners, and other mechanical elements. Limit switches can be easily obtained from printers.

DARE2MAKE CHALLENGE

Find Your Passion

Invest in Education & Growth

Make Something Amazing

Follow the White Rabbit