Router Bit Organizer - Rolodex Style

[Burkhardt]

Since I started working with CNC machines some 4 years ago I purchased various bits, sometimes in bulk for smaller sizes that I like to use. I made a tray with holes to hold them but that was soon overflowing and I ended up with router bits everywhere, not knowing what was still there and sometime buying stuff again that I still had in a drawer somewhere.

So, today I made a high density bit organizer that can hold all the bits that I have. Theoretically up to 400 but practically maybe half of that. I still have to mark the ones that are in use right now (or vice verse the ones that are just inventory), maybe with a piece of tape. I think it will do the job. The moving "ammo clips" allow presenting the type of bit I need.

[curtiss]

Can you rig it up to work with an automatic bit changer ?

Seems it should have a stepper motor on it somewhere....

[genek]

All the bits that i have for the cnc would fit on 1/3 of one roll..

I guess i need to buy more maybe i could keep the cnc busier.

MY PROBLEM IS NOT KNOW WHERE THEY ARE IT IS NOT KNOW WHAT THEY ARE.

[Burkhardt]

Can you rig it up to work with an automatic bit changer ?

Wouldn't that be cool

But for now I just have to take the collet wrench to swap them. ATC is a bit pricey for me. Not that I couldn't use it.

At some point I was wondering about a setup with 2 or 3 Chinese spindles and bits already loaded to swap out the entire spindle when tool changing. Looks easier to me than a complicated mechanism on the spindle shaft. Oh well, maybe next year. I don't do production work and bit changes are annoying but O.K.

[mikeacg]

I like the look of it but I don't have the space in my CNC room so I put them on the wall. What can you tell me about the inserts? Did you make them or buy them? They would make my life a lot easier!

Mike

[Burkhardt]

I like the look of it but I don't have the space in my CNC room so I put them on the wall. What can you tell me about the inserts? Did you make them or buy them? They would make my life a lot easier!

Mike

Not sure what you mean with the "inserts" ? But the whole thing is made from 3/4" phenolic clad Baltic. The frame has interlocking joints and the bit holder tabs are machined from the same material, see below. I tapered the thickness to allow for better spacing and flipping and slotted under the bit holes to prevent accumulation of dust and chips.

I could have done this probably in a simpler fashion but I have a tendency to overdo things....

[mporter88]

If you posted your design I would download and and make that.
I cant think of a higher compliment except to say that ...
IF you molded that I think Rockler would stock it.

[Burkhardt]

Hello M. (another first initial only poster like me...)

if you pm your email address I can send the file(s) to you. They are separate .crv file for the individual components as well as the bit holes. Since this was done a while ago I don't remember exactly the assignments of the file names but they are semi-self explanatory.

BTW, I am in the Pasadena/Arcadia area.

GB

[chadagmsign]

good looking project and idea you have here!

[joe]

GB,

I'm very impressed with your bit holder. It's a beauty.

So, please pat yourself on the back. You have our permission on a job well done. Wish I'd one of these years ago.

Joe