For some time now, I have been interested in the idea of building a simple CNC Router. At this stage it is just an idea, so I am just going to run through some of the thoughts I have accumulated on the subject. Later I will post additional entries on specific parts of the project. Once I have enough of the specifics figured out, I will put together an Initial Design and plan.
For the cutter, I would use a trim router similar to the one that I used on the Router Duplicator ( I still need to write an entry on the Router Duplicator ). I would like for it to be a 3-axis machine, but the capabilities of the vertical axis don't have to be fully featured.
My initial thoughts on doing the linear motion would be to use a threaded rod that is turned by a motor. The platform being moved would be attached to a nut, so that as the threaded rod is turned, the platform moves.
One thing that I need to learn a lot more about is the motors. I don't know what kinds of motors to use, or what circuitry I will need to control them. I have read from some places to use stepper motors but others have said to use servos. I am going to read through the links below and answer the question of what motors and additional circuitry will be best suited for this project.
Links to interesting home built CNC machines:
http://www.homecnc.info/cnc-main.html
http://www.storm.ca/~rheslip/cnc.htm
http://www.8linx.com/cnc/cnc.htm
http://www.geocities.com/pfaudette/CNC_Router.htm