I am finally breaking down and going to build a CNC Plasma Table. I have had to build and design far too many times with more complexity that could have been accomplished easily with a sheet metal part. I have most of the mechanical design done in SolidWorks for the table. But I am also mostly lost on the electronics side. Which is putting a heavy slow down on the project due to electronic component mounting locations and what’s needed to finish the project.
So, I thought I would throw this out there. If anyone, or a group of people, here are interested in a joint design that we would share EVERYTHING with the community, we could make this happen. I would put together a full 3d model with a bill of materials, drawings for modified/machined parts, and a top-level mechanical assembly drawing package.
I would share my model to personal willing to add electronic components needed. I could (if needed) create the brackets and mounting points if they were positioned in the correct locations in model space.
Someone could then workout a plug and play type control system with all that would be needed. Or break up the work as needed to willing individuals.
When completed. I would like it to be free and accessible to everyone and be able to be built and assembled by a true novice (Maybe loaded to Grab CAD). I have learned so much from this site as well as many others. I would like to be able to give back with this extremely helpful machine.
If you are interested in joining in this project with me, please let me know!
I took my inspiration from this:
https://www.instructables.com/id/CNC-Plasma-Table/But I want to take it further with (hopefully) a better design where one does not need to have a company cut and form the parts (Which can be VERY costly). But rather use mostly extruded aluminum. All bolt together with no welding. And a dummy proof (or as close to possible) wiring set up that anyone can handle. Also much more detailed build instructions. Especially on the electronic side. And ideally build cost around $1000.