Design question...

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A friend wants me to either modify this stand or build a completely new stand for his embossing tool. He wants to shed the plywood base and design a better pedal system. I think I'll keep the existing metal stand (no use re-inventing the wheel...) and figure out some sort of a cool base and pedal design. It needs to be solid and stationary, so no casters involved. Any bright ideas right off the bat?Miller Dynasty 200DXMiller 252 Miller 250xMiller Syncrowave 250Miller AEAD200 LegendMiller 375 Xtreme plasmaLincoln WeldPak 100Victor O/A
Reply:cccccan you tie the legs together at the bottom andpivotthe foot pedal off that?
Reply:Is it an aesthetics issue or a usability issue? Does the pedal function basically correct or is it awkward? Have you seen him using the machine? Does it shift or move while being used? Is the pedal placement correct? I have a lot of questions before I can even being to imagine how to make it work better. On machines like this I like a base that I can get the pallet jack under so I can move it easily or a lift eye so I can lift it onto skates to move. I imagine the heavier the base the better. I'm thinking a heavy steel plate. Here's a sketch that comes to mind. The top vs bottom stance may be a bit exaggerated. Cut from steel plate... say 1/4", not sure how heavy it needs to be. Sits on leveling screws with a ball end that sit in pads, just like a big machine or you could use pre-made feet. It's your project. You asked for ideas.
Reply:It functions well as it is but the pedal is rickety and could be much better. I'm kind of leaning toward an idea like CarlH suggested. When the plywood is removed, the legs will be a little too flexible since there aren't any gussets. Maybe a 1"x2" sq tubing base for the legs to attach to then a pedal assembly with a stronger hinge welded to the 1x2. That would also provide a low profile step to help stabilize the tool. The throw needed is only about 2" so I think a much smaller pedal would work better as well. Added weight is always better like you mentioned forhire but I don't know if a piece of heavy plate is worth the added expense for this one. Maybe I should put some expanded metal for a shelf under it and weight could be added on the shelf if needed...Miller Dynasty 200DXMiller 252 Miller 250xMiller Syncrowave 250Miller AEAD200 LegendMiller 375 Xtreme plasmaLincoln WeldPak 100Victor O/A