Since installing my new Z axis assembly, I have been working on a few final components. This update is quick summary of two of them, and provides links to the YT videos for those
interested in more details.
- Counterbalance system
With both my previous Z20, and current custom Z axis assembly, my heavy ATC spindle would slowly drift down on system power down. I remedied this with a high torque stepper with brake, but because my ATC spindle/Z assembly is very heavy, I had always wanted to relieve the added forces experienced by some of the linear motion components. After researching several options, I decided to use constant force springs as they were the simplest, lightest, most compact, and cost effective solution compared to the other choices.
This video shares some details of design, installation, and machining…
- Z axis cable carrier
With my new Z axis design installed, I was able to finalize the cable management. I already was familiar with Igus products, as I chose their solutions for cable as well as my large X and Y axis cable chains. I needed a solution that would 1) hold the large number of cable, water hose, and air tubing going to my spindle, and 2) not add significantly to overall height (my Woodworker X50 is in a low-ceiling basement room). I chose a cable carrier from their multi-axis robotic line - Triflex R series.
This video shares some details of design, installation, and machining…
- ATC floating dust shoe
In a previous post I shared one design for an ATC dust shoe prototype. I am just waiting on a few components to complete a second design, and will share that in a future video in the next few weeks. I have built and installed what will most likely be the main parts of the final version, and have been using it successfully to complete the aforementioned projects - see #1 and #2 above. If it interested, the videos show it in action. Right now I am just doing tool changes by hand for efficiency until I decide on the best design for the new linear tool rack that will be required. I have several ideas that will work, but I find the challenge is to have a system that is mechanically simple, reliable, and maximizes the number of ISO20 holders available.
