After being disappointed with the Z-axis control inside his laser cutter, Martin Raynsford turned to the Arduino platform to solve his problem. By using a stepper motor, his modification and move the bed up and down much faster than the original unit, while still keeping the required end-stop detection and datum functions (determining the physical amount of travel available for the laser on the z-axis). The differences are shown in the following video:
This is an interesting modification to a commercial product, and shows that you can hack your own things with some thought and effort. To learn more about Martin's laser-cutting - visit his interesting website. And for more, we're on facebook, Google+, and twitter - so follow us for news and product updates as well.
If you're looking into starting with Arduino and robotics, such as controlling a stepper motor (or DC motors) from your Arduino or compatible, check out our new HBRIDGE: DC/stepper motor shield. Based around the powerful Allegro A4954 H-bridge driver IC you can control two DC motors with complete ease, or one bipolar stepper motor. With connections for external power management, a complete beginners' guide and documentation - motor control couldn't be any easier. For more information and to order, visit the HBRIDGE: page.