A different kind of rotary attachment

[Gary Hair]

If you divide the y-axis by Pi you should get the maximum theoretical diameter minus the fixture width.

I just realized that would give you the maximum engravable length but the diameter would only matter if you were trying to engrave around the entire circumference.

As far as gantry strain, I agree to some extent, however, the gantry doesn't move very fast or very much due to the 'raster' scanning of engraving. It mostly creeps along which is pretty easy to move with the rollers.

Very true

It certainly could use some improvement, but it has some potential.

I think it has lots of potential! I think optimizing/minimizing and using aluminum would go a long ways to improve it, but it certainly is a great start.

[Dave Sheldrake]

I love this kind of thing Doug, while I have rotarys they don't get used much but the focussed mind that creates something like you have is inspiring to say the least.

Anybody looking to do the same on a chinese machine, you can reset the home position to the top middle easily in the software so the head won't clash when it goes home.

[Mayo Pardo]

Jim I sent you a PM

Dave:
While Doug started this thread in 2012, Jim has just recently put his own spin on a similar device.

[Mayo Pardo]

Jim

If the material of choice was more rigid, (like aluminum) do you think you would be able to eliminate the front most roller? If so, this would allow engraving a larger diameter because you would have more available travel in the Y axis. If I calculated right, the circumference of 11 inches will allow up to 3 1/2 inches diameter.

Would you be able to share the Corel file or is it available for purchase some place? I'm interested - it would at least give me a starting point for making a similar one for my machine.