by Rad Racer » Wed Feb 05, 2014 1:21 pm
Hi Jeff,
Glad you like the machine. Because this was/is intended to be a one off design I did not make a detailed design file for construction. Back on page 8 there is a PDF file showing the basic 2D sketch I used for construction. This was simply used to determine to correct cut lengths for the 8020. To simplify construction I keep all my cuts lengths is standard sizes (ie.. 1/2", 1/4", etc...) so I didn't end up with crazy panel sizes later in the assembly phase.
If you take a good look at the photos I think you see there really isn't any thing special about the frame design....it's really just a base to hold up the base plate. The base plate is the important part....it holds all the components and alignments necessary to make the laser work. Spend time on the base plate layout.....make accurate measurements of your laser tube, motors, rails, and such entering these into CAD. Getting the base plate right is super important and makes optical alignment much easier when you get to that step in the process.
hope this helps,
Wayne