I was watching this video and I thought "why not use a Propeller to make that"?



A relatively cheap CNC machine kit based off the Propeller? Yes please!

It could probably work with .eps or .svg files, but I'm not sure how complicated it would be to make it work in 3 dimensions.

Just needs a way to load files to cut/engrave/draw, got several ideas for that:

- SD card with a text LCD interface. Load the files from an SD card, select and monitor progress on one of those cheap text-based LCDs people put in PC cases to monitor CPU load and heat, or screens from those "my first activity computer" things VTEC makes. (They might be more difficult for some people to acquire though.)

- SD card with TV-out interface. The Propeller can output composite video, so this would save the user from having to get an LCD that will work with the kit. However, that's kind of awkward to set up. (I'm thinking more along the lines of what we do here; if it's set up that way it could just use a spare LCD or one of those $20 DealExtreme specials.)

- Connect to the PC through USB and use its own controller software. Hooking it up like a printer would be the dirt-cheap way to do it, but would require writing software and possibly drivers to make it functional. This would require minimal extra parts, saving money at the expense of development time.

The actual cutting part could be a custom-built motor setup, or a clamp to attach a Dremel or drill the user already has.

The unit already prototyped in the video handles the X axis, but for the Y access I think it should move the material under it, as opposed to it moving over the material. This would allow for (theoretically) unlimited length on the Y axis, and the unit itself could be smaller and easier to store when not in use. (And as an added bonus, the same basic design could be customized into a plotter.)

What do you think?

In my opinion, the best and most viable idea yet. Of course, he already has access to a 3-dimensional CNC cutter so this would purely be a project just for fun.

Whoo! Something I've done tons of research into!

You can't directly use .svg files, you have to load it into CAM software to draw the G-Code (.nc, and others) for the drivers.

Loading the files would be best through a cheap shop computer (even P1 is doable), which I'm sure most people could pick up for free (or on the cheap). Also, a parallel/printer port would be better than USB (I forget why ) and for drivers, all you need is a copy of EMC2 (free linux machining distro software).

Moving the whole y axis is possible, but I think you'll need a much bigger stepper motor along that axis.

A dremel for cutting power is fine.

It's a good idea though.

Apparently you can go as low as $20 to build a CNC router, but that's with scavenging for stepper motors from printers/scanners, and also lacks electronics.

I agree wholeheartedly. I would love to see this done.

SO. Apparently I should have checked the forums before I emailed my submission. I just emailed this. I second scruffy's second. I've seen a couple on the tubes but I'd like to see Ben's take on it, and I'd like to see his instructions/parts list/finished product.

I am interested in a DIY CNC Kit.


I mean, I have put some research into it too as you can see here http://www.haunted360.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=59&t=51


Thanks.

do you actually read anything anybody says to you? or are you really that oblivious? let me say it one last time


If you post another direct link or url to your website or forum you WILL receive a one month ban.

Pwned

Claw Machine anyone?

Maybe we can win some Money as like Michael Jackson had in his...

Looks like ben's doing this.

He is!

Can't wait to build one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am so excited for his show.

I will be watching it all the time! hahaha

didn't you see the vid in the OP?

Yea, and then I re-posted it by accidental...