Overview
To obtain some form of accuracy when manufacturing components for the simulator, there is only one tool to turn to. A Computer Numeric Control (CNC) Router. So that was what I ended up building to help me with this project. The design is a mix between a Rockliff Model A and the free online 'jgro' CNC. And of course some of my own ideas.
Components
My CNC system mainly consists of the following components:
- Base that holds the Y-axis
- Gantry that holds the X- and Z-axis
- Stepper motors for all three axises
- Limit switches
- Emergency Stop (EStop) button
- PC with the controller software - Mach3
- Controller card
- Power supply
- Spindle motor
- Various tool tips
- Safety gear such as safety goggles and an ear cover
Controller Card
The controller card used is a Hobby CNC Pro Chopper Driver (3-axis) card. The option exist to upgrade it to a 4-axis card. This card was purchased in a kit so I had to solder each component myself.
Spindle Motor
After first using a 135W spindle motor, I upgraded to a Kress 800W spindle motor. It comes with a 8mm collet so I had to purchase a 3mm and 6mm collet. This enables me to use Dremel and Wood Router tooltips. The spindle and accessories were purchased from CNC-Plus in Germany.
Photos
Thanks
I would like to thanks the following 2 persons who helped a lot during the building of the CNC:
- Johan Enslin
(Who helped me with the shipping of the stepper motors and the controller card - when the vendor did not ship to Namibia)
- Per Erik
(Who answered some questions regarding the CNC and who's own website CNC section made my choices easier) | 
