Drag Knife Holder

thingiverse

I have many platforms that bring me great joy. I've recently added 3D printing as a new platform, which has allowed me to learn more about CAD and STL file development. I also use a CNC table for Plasma cutting and Routing of various materials. I built an optional Drag Knife holder to attach to the router on my table. It worked well initially, but when I started 3D printing, I saw an opportunity to create a new holder. The process began with a CAD drawing, then moved to 123D Design to convert that single drawing into three separate STL files for printing. The DFX file served as the base, and I either extruded or subtracted sections, manipulating each part to achieve its final shape. This assembly is designed to float the drag knife using its own weight to cut through vinyl without damaging the backing paper. The linear shaft and bearings enable the blade holder to move smoothly up and down. The blade swivels inside the holder as it changes direction to cut various shapes in sign vinyl. I purchased two 8mm linear bearings, a hardened 8mm rod, and the Drag Knife holder from eBay. Two of these 300mm rods were cut into shorter shafts. I also acquired a Roland Blade Holder for cutting plotter vinyl cutter sign making machine #4 blade holder with an 11.5mm OD body size. To assemble the Drag Knife holder, I pressed the bearing into place and used it to keep the shafts aligned as they were pressed together. Two holes in the bearing section are tapped with a 10-32 tap for attaching a mounting plate to my CNC table.