Design Example: Optical TableΒΆ
A commercial optical table is a highly rigid structure with a regular pattern of threaded mounting holes for assembling prototype optical systems. This example shows a simple and cheap way to set up a prototyping breadboard for assembling prototype mechanisms following the flat pack design rules. It can be CNC-cut from 12mm plywood and uses large suction cups as feet.
Instead of threaded holes it simply has 0.25” through-holes so M6 or 1/4-20 screws can be passed up from below. This is not nearly as convenient as threaded holes, but is much cheaper to make. A more elaborate design might instead threaded inserts.
The SolidWorks model files may be found in the FlatPackExample/Optical-Table folder, or may be downloaded as a single file as Optical-Table.zip.
The suction cup is McMaster-Carr part 53535A45.
The six extra 3/8” holes are used for mounting the breadboard to a jig spoilplate during CNC cutting. The jig plate:
