ArduLift - DIY Arduino controlled Router Lift

[revwarguy]

I thought I would build a lift from available plans, but…
Here is a DIY computer controlled router lift that was a really satisfying project.
Made for a drop in router table and uses a stepper motor for precision movement.
Has an auto zero probe (that thing at the lower left in the first picture.)
Before you ask me why I bothered, take look at my blog here
which probably tells you more than you want to know. :^)

[wolfcotom]

Thank you for an excellent build description. This is one of the most complete builds I have seen. I am building a 5 ft. x 12 ft slab milling machine and will probably use your Z axis design in it. Thank you again!!!

[Ralphxyz]

Your Blog is great, really tells the story, Thanks!!

Ralph

[Jon]

Nice blog. Feel free to add a link to it in your forum signature, so that a link to it will appear with each post you make.

[RKarel]

Great build! The build log is awesome with all the detail needed to duplicate and or modify your design.

But being a newbie I do have a question - how or where do I download the Arduino code? I did not find a link to it in your build log. I have at this time no experience with the Arduino or its programming but will shortly begin experimenting with it.

[IAMSatisfied]

Thank you for posting & documenting such a beautifully well-thought-out design & build!

As I read your build log, I thought of a way to simplify & strengthen the screw attachment to the end-grain of the plywood box would be to use barrel/dowel nuts (instead of threaded inserts), which would wholly eliminate the opportunities for cross-threading inserts and for pull-out or splitting of the plywood.

http://www.leevalley.com/us/wood/pag...59&cat=1,43455

http://www.leevalley.com/us/hardware...76,45375,44238

Again, thanks much for sharing this!

[revwarguy]

As I read your build log, I thought of a way to simplify & strengthen the screw attachment to the end-grain of the plywood box would be to use barrel/dowel nuts (instead of threaded inserts)

Good idea. I found that the inserts work pretty well, as the forces involved aren't in the direction where the inserts are weak, but if I ever see some kind of failure, I can always remove them and use the cross dowels. With your permission, I may mention this on the blog.

[IAMSatisfied]

With your permission, I may mention this on the blog.

Of course you may, I don't hold the patent on cross dowels.

[Jon]

Congratulations revwarguy - your Arduino Router Lift is the Homemade Tool of the Week!

Great build, and excellent details available in your blog.

Another big week around here. Some nice picks: a Small Depth Gauge by Shelly142, a Radius Anvil by Frank S, a Drill Press Crank Handle by Captainleeward, a Spot Welder by scorch, a Panel Cutting Jig by Downeast Thunder, a Stick Welding Method by Eloy Workshop, a Mill Vise Speed Handle by Captainleeward, a 3-Link Rebuild by Frank S, a Lathe Cutting Tool Holder by Captainleeward, a Branding Iron by Downeast Thunder, a Tee Handle Hex Driver by Captainleeward, and an Alignment Punch by Frank S.

revwarguy - we've added your tool entry to our All Homemade Tool of the Week winners post. And, you'll now notice the wrench-on-pedestal award in the awards showcase in your postbit, visible beneath your username:



You'll be receiving a $25 online gift card, in your choice of Amazon, PayPal, or bitcoin. Please PM me your current email address and gift card choice and I'll get it sent over right away.


Congratulations and well done!

[revwarguy]

Congratulations revwarguy - your Arduino Router Lift is the Homemade Tool of the Week!

Thanks so much!