PCB surface tracker(pre-lim.)

thingiverse

This project is currently in development and requires further refinement before it's ready for production. I'm sharing it now to gather feedback and inspire new ideas. The design features a spring-loaded mechanism that runs on the Z-axis of a milling machine, using a limit switch to signal the cam software when the milling bit comes into contact with the copper-clad board. I've recently redesigned the locking collar due to its initial tightness. Although it hasn't been printed yet, this component is part of the vacuum collar, ensuring its accuracy. The v-slide has been nearly completed, but some adjustments are needed to close the gap and secure the limit switch mounting. A threaded tube allows for adjusting cutting depth and tracking the surface of the copper-clad board. Achieving consistent cutting depth demands either mapping the entire board with offsets or following the contour. If larger PCBs are being tackled, errors will occur without surface tracking. To compensate, a vacuum port has been added to prevent depth collar escape during milling operations. Intake slots might be incorporated into the depth collar for improved airflow. This design also utilizes a motor and collet initially chosen from http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-Hand-Drill-DIY-Lathe-Press-555-Motor-w-1-8-Chuck-Mounting-Bracket-12-24V/361989772460?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649. However, the next iteration will employ this motor and collet: http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-5-3-17mm-Collet-Electric-DC12V-Motor-Drill-with-24-Twist-Drill-Bits-Wrenches-/391804304064?hash=item5b395b3ac0:g:UIYAAOSwKytZMsXk. This change will allow for a smaller averaged area by shrinking the depth gauge collar. However, run-out remains an unknown factor concerning cutting wobble, and further work is necessary to address this issue.