
Although some may have heard of a machine like this, the CNC tripod remains an unknown machine to many in the engineering word.* This particular machine is set up as a plotter, drawing incredibly straight lines, shapes, and letters.
The machine appears to have 6 servo motors, 3 working as pairs.* This would simplify control and allows the pen to be held at a perpendicular angle to the paper.* Once could envision this being used with, instead of a pen, a spindle and mill.* Instead of the traditional movement of a CNC mill or router, this could be used to cut out complex shapes.
Additionally, if the servos were not driven in 3 tandem pairs, but were all controlled independently, it should be possible to twist the tool in a controlled angular direction.* This would add an extra axis of control to an already robust CNC setup.* It will be exciting to see how this technology develops in the future.* Until then, check out the video after the break:
Also, for another alternate machining method, check out this “CNC hexapod.”* Really cool as well.
Filed under: cnc hacks
