Plasma Cutter Pantograph

[evo803]

I bought the PP50 and quickly figured out that I am terrible at cutting out parts with it. So I thought get a small CNC machine until I looked at the prices ! That is how I ended up with this project. It is small and very easy to setup and put away so I find myself always using it. I first make a pattern from 1/4 plywood or similar and screw it down and then just trace around it with the stylus.

[sportbike]

That is pretty cool. Very simple.

Do you hold onto the torch as well and pull the trigger yourself? Looks like it would be pretty stable and easy enough to hold both the stylus portion and the torch.

[performance]

That's a very clever pattern tracer. I'd say that has commercial value for those you can't afford to build or buy a CNC. Care to post any plans?

[sportbike]

That's a very clever pattern tracer. I'd say that has commercial value for those you can't afford to build or buy a CNC. Care to post any plans?

I like the idea that the patterns are so simple. You could design in CAD, print out a 1:1, and then cut even very complex parts out with a scroll saw or similar and still maintain high accuracy.

[zoama]

Great idea. I'd like to see video of it in action as well as plans if you're willing.

[Tritium]

Plans or detailed photos with measurements and parts list would be great if you are willing. I also have looked at CNC and they are way too high for me to justify the cost. Too bad, because once one is set up it is cheap to cut many of the parts for many more tables yet the vendors sell them for just short of robbery prices (They think everyone buys one to make lots of money with it and they want their cut of your profit). Even the "KITS" are outrageously priced.

Thurmond

[Trip59]

That's awesome! What size bearings did you use for wheels? The arm you attached the stylus to, have you had any torsional issues, or does it slide smooth enough?

[redbeard]

That is pretty cool. Very simple.

Do you hold onto the torch as well and pull the trigger yourself? Looks like it would be pretty stable and easy enough to hold both the stylus portion and the torch.

I presume you would just use the 4T setting, pull the trigger once for on and pull it again for off.

That is a cool project, too bad it's looking like evo was a one post wonder.

[DaveO]

That is quite a fixture: simple and elegant. I sent Evo803 a PM, asking him to stop by and comment on questions. If he included an email address in his Everlast registration, he'll get an email notification about the PM, so hopefully he'll stop by again.

[acourtjester]

Hi Guys
If you go to www.metalmeet.com there is a very similar pantograph by Charley Davidson.
I'm sure you could use smaller bearing then he did but there is great info there.
See attached picture for info on what topic you should look for (Dec-10) time frame.
I think mixing of both posts info could give you a great project.

have fun
Tom

[redbeard]

I really hate forums that make you register just to look at their pictures. Especially when it is such an impressive looking site.

Just in case you want to go anyway, here is the direct link:
http://www.metalmeet.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7279

[parkour]

heres a video of it..
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1512994112848