Shopbot room layout suggestions

[gtorranc]

Hi Shopbotters -

I am getting a new PRSalpha and wonder if there are some room layout recommendations and/or best practices you might suggest.

Thanks

Glenn

[tuck]

The best advice I can offer is to make sure you have walking access around the entire machine. Don't have it pushed up against a wall if possible.

Some folks have put big casters under their machines when space is a problem so it can be moved around. I don't know how well that works but I've thought about it myself, especially when it's time for a good floor sweeping.;)

[myxpykalix]

Like mark suggests make sure you have as much space as you can allocate around your bot. I found as a result of have too many tools and not enough space i was turning sideways and "skootching" to get around mine so i had to build an addition.

Also when orienting your bot in the shop in relation to where your computer is going to be you may want to mount your control box close enough so when starting a file you don't have to get up and walk to the opposite end just to hit a button.

I mounted my control box before i thought of that and everytime i start a file i have to walk around the upper left end (just a couple feet) to hit the button. I will eventually relocate it or buy one of those external button kits SB sells (although i can't afford $180.00)

[tuck]

Glen,

You didn't mention what you intend to do with your new bot, what you want to make, etc. Doing so may lead to a few more helpful suggestions.

[gtorranc]

Turns out that I will use is for manufacturing model airplanes. These are relatively large 3rd and 1/4 scale radio control models. I have a laser cutter on site... adding a CNC will enhance our production. Looking forward to learning and using it.

[michael_schwartz]

Think about where you store your sheet goods, and how will you move them to the bot comfortably, and efficiently with little or no help.

If you don't cut large sheets, plan for it anyway. I don't think you would turn down the work if somebody came to you wanting to have 200 sheets cut into misc parts for something.

[bleeth]

Glen:
You also didn't say what size machine or how much shop space.
My preference is to have enough space to load from one end and unload from the other. If you can't do this at least have a couple feet between the end and a wall and definately a couple feet from the side to the wall. Assuming a 4 x 8 tool you definately want enough room at one end to load from the end. Since you will be changing bits from the low Y end you need room there.
That being said I know one botter at least who has/had the high end of x right at a wall and his computer tower next to it. He loads/unloads from the end and has lots of room on either side.

I have my control/computer tower against the wall at the x-0 Y-48 with enough room left to get behind the machine. I would prefer the tower in the middle of the floor at 0,0 but that space is needed for forklift room.

[tuck]

The second must useful tool in my little shop is my panel saw when it comes to dealing with sheet goods. I work alone, and the saw makes it easier to load and cut square and rectangular panels quickly. Very useful as a compliment to a CNC machine and doesn't take up a lot of floor space:

http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f332/Superfan52/panelsaw.jpg

[jhedlund58]

i agree with all posts... i have a smaller 2X4 buddy, and i spent a couple of days moving it around several times b 4 being comfortable enough to lower the pads for the roller feet and truly stabilize machine. u will want access to multiple sides. make sure dust collection moves freely. wat a great tool... enjoy

[tuck]

Is this you, Glenn? http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=SDbQ5xvsrIU