Est. 1998 — 27 years of woodworking knowledge
Laser depth finder
Gary Bills in NC
>Here is my version of the laser bowl depth finder. The 2X8 base is rabbited to fit the ways. The �� PVC pipes are both moveable in and out through the 2X4. This shows finding the bottom. Then the assembly can be removed and with a ruler, find the distance between the inside bottom and the outside bottom.
Re: Laser depth finder
William
>Hey, I have the same laser! Staples special. Nice job on your system. How did you go about mounting the system to lathe so it was sturdy?
Secondly, one of the things I am trying to do is wire some type of on/off switch to the laser, like a toggle. My "prototype" has too much play when I hit the push button.
William
Re: Laser depth finder
Brad Vietje
>Gary,
Nice idea...
How would it work to join the two PVC pieces with 2 elbows and a straight piece between them, making a big "U" shape, so they don't move independently ? If you adjust the laser to point at the tip of the probe, (permanantly, I suppose), you could just slide them through the 2 X 4 into the bowl to find where you are in there. You'd see where the inside of the bowl was, but wouldn't need to measure anything. I suspect conduit might be even better because it's less flexible, especially for deep bowls and vessels.
Safe Spinning,
Brad Vietje
Thetford, VT
Re: Laser depth finder
Gary Bills in NC
>The base is a 2X8 that is rabbited on the bottom the fit between the ways. It is a snug fit and just sets there. It is quick and easy to remove that way.
Re: Laser depth finder
Gary Bills in NC
>Yes, this would work very well. I've use mine with the pointer both ways, lined up with the end of the lower pipe and lined up with the bottom of the bowl and then measuring. I think it's a personal preferance which way to use it.
Re: Laser depth finder
Ed
>Howdy William: I solved the switch problem by going to Harbor Freight (don't laugh) and buying their lazer level ($19.95 when on sale) that comes with a small tripod. It is actually made in the USA and I think it's called "Torpedo Boy." It has a magnetic base and also 1/4x20 threaded hole for mounting with a screw. It has an on/off switch and takes aa batteries, not the expensive watch type.
Ed