Shopbot Buddy Centroid Clearpath conversion

[tkbot47]

Hello all,

Finally completed conversion of my Shopbot Buddy to Centroid Acorn with Clearpath motors. It is a circa 2016 PRSAlpha 48x48" 4 axis machine, and I converted all axes. I totally redid the control box with a 20x20 cabinet as shown. I used the original SB limit switches on XYZ (none on Rot). The Aluminum slotted table and Vacuum table mod designs are thanks to Mr. Coholic of the SB forum, but modified a bit, and the vac uses the Blackbox Hurricane unit. Gone are the comm errors, and I can run the tool at speeds up to the point where the machine shakes. Performance is excellent as reported here. Can't wait for 4.22 and the Router config.
Tom

[tkbot47]

Additional info I forgot: I used Automation Direct Suregear 5:1 gearboxes, and made my own mounting plates based on the SB ones. I used the Shimpo 15:1 gearbox already on the rotation axis, but I had to modify the mounting flange to work with the Clearpath motor. I can get 250 rpm rotation speed with the motor I used, running CNC12 at 400KHz - no problem with the Clearpaths!

[martyscncgarage]

Nice work and clean control cabinet!
Marty

[tkbot47]

Nice work and clean control cabinet!
Marty

Thanks, Marty. That means a lot coming from you. The improvements in reliability, communication, and operability are so great over the original setup, that it's like a new machine. I now have a mill, lathe, and Shopbot setup with Acorn, so it's full speed ahead on projects!
Tom

[Gary Campbell]

Tom...
Nice clean job! Don't forget to drop a line or two on the SB forum. There are lots of guys waiting to start their projects by gauging the success of others.

[martyscncgarage]

Nice work and clean control cabinet!
Marty

Thanks, Marty. That means a lot coming from you. The improvements in reliability, communication, and operability are so great over the original setup, that it's like a new machine. I now have a mill, lathe, and Shopbot setup with Acorn, so it's full speed ahead on projects!
Tom

Glad Centroid is working out for you! Makes it so much easier to have the same familiar user interface. I simply won't work on anything else for that reason, and the support and dedication by the Centroid staff to try and continually improve their products as best they can.

Marty

[tkbot47]

Thanks, Gary. I ended up making the adapter plates myself - it was fun! All I had to do was ask SB for the prints for the parts, then modified them to fit the gearboxes. I obviously also benefited from the copious postings and help from you, Marty and others on this fantastic forum. After speaking with SB late last year, I knew Acorn was the only way forward to make my machine run right.
Tom

[martyscncgarage]

Tom...
Nice clean job! Don't forget to drop a line or two on the SB forum. There are lots of guys waiting to start their projects by gauging the success of others.

I echo what Gary says. Point them to this post. Sharing Centroid success stories with others will benefit everyone.

Marty

[martyscncgarage]

Tom, what have you noticed or perceived the improvements to be moving to Centroid?

[tkbot47]

Forgot to mention: One of the other things I did was to modify the original SB dust shoe. I essentially cut the shoe in half to remove the bottom part with the brush. I then made a custom bottom piece on my 3D printer from PETG plastic, and attach it with rare earth magnets, using the original skirt. I now can pop it off to mount a tool or clean it with no problem. The shoe is still adjustable up and down as the original design allowed. I''d be glad to share that design STL file if there's interest.
Tom