Bob's Super Simple 4th Axis

[Bob]

The secrets of the universe are about to be revealed to everyone. Remember, I try to keep everything simple. This project is a pretty good example.
First the picture:

I told you it was simple..

In the next posts, I will add files.
Bob

[CountryWoodCrafts]

EXCELLENT. . . never thought of it that way!!!!!!

[tmerrill]

Ingenious approach. Great job!

Tim

[GARYR6]

Nice... and there all the time just waiting for your discovery. Can't wait to give it a try.

[Bob]

Step 1:
Remember, this unit was designed for the basic Shark. You will need to change dimensions as needed.
When machining parts, I used double sided carpet tape to hold the material to a scrap board. You can use other methods. Also, before trying to build or use this, remember to use your own judgment first. If something or some step looks stupid don't do it. If you are confused about any step, ask me, or someone who is experienced. Think things through and take responsibility for your actions. Have I left anything out of this disclaimer?
Step 2:
All holes are marked by the Shark then drilled through on the drill press. I did this for accuracy. You can use any method you trust.
I used plastic that I had on hand, so I planned cuts based on sizes of my material. Use whatever material you think is appropriate.
Be sure to double check tools, toolpaths, material thickness, feeds, and speeds, etc.
Cut the board that holds the rack, to a width that fits your Shark. Build and mount support arms to the gantry first, then measure to see what width is needed.
Step 3:
Check to see if the center of your router chuck extends 1.25" past the front of the gantry sides. If not, modify your design so that the center of the pinion gears is in alignment with the center of the chuck.
When mounting the pinion gear to the side supports, use the lower hole in the support arm. I used two holes so that the supports can be used on either side of the gantry. The axle is locked by using a thumb screw. Drill and tap holes for this purpose.
Step 4: I would also really like to see results of your work, both the device, and projects. Please post stuff.
Get ready:
The Mounting Arms:

Mounting arms

4th axis mounting arms.crv

(448.5 KiB) Downloaded 2362 times

I'll post the rest in two more posts.
Bob

[Bob]

The Rack:

4th axis rack for pinion gears.crv

(1.86 MiB) Downloaded 2446 times

One more,
Bob

[Bob]

The pinion gears:

4th axis pinion gears.crv

(2.08 MiB) Downloaded 2292 times

That's it.
Now, get to work, make wonderful stuff, teach me how to use this thing.
Bob

[basecircle]

Thank you Bob.You really put your talents in this .Great job.Thanks Basecircle

[CountryWoodCrafts]

Cool . . . I want to build this and then because I have the extended table look into making a system that can use the length of my table. . . 52" waiting to turn something. . . Thanks for the files and ideas

[Bob]

One more thing...You will notice two holes on the end of each support arm. They were intended for a crosspiece if the device needed to be stiffer. They were not needed for the one I built...So, we'll call them accessory mounts.
Bob