Pantograph Lift Desk

The Pantograph Lift Desk is a unique mechanism designed for adjusting the height of a worktable measuring 100x100 mm. The core of this design is a pantograph lifting mechanism, named after the drafting instrument—a pantograph. This instrument consists of a system of links and connections, allowing smooth and precise changes in the position of an object by proportionally replicating movement.

The Pantograph Lift Desk enables users to easily and smoothly adjust the table's height based on current needs. Its compactness and multifunctionality make it an indispensable tool in laboratories and for electronics work.

With precise height adjustment, this table is ideal as a stand for equipment that requires stable and adjustable positioning. It also functions as a work platform for delicate processes that demand precise approaches. This tool is beneficial for electronics technicians, researchers, lab technicians, and other professionals where accuracy and ergonomics are essential.

I typically use a top layer smoothing mode. This process increases print time but improves the surface's neatness. If you use my print profile for the BambuLab printer and don't need smoothing, you can simply disable this option in the slicer.For making the table, I used ABS plastic for high-speed printing from eSUN, but you can use any plastic at your discretion. Also, the profile is set up for PLA plastic from BambuLab.

To install and secure an M4 threaded rod, you will need an M3 lock washer. First, the rod should be cut to a length of 100 mm, and then a groove should be made to a diameter of 3 mm at a distance of 16 mm from the rod's end. This can be done by securing the rod, perhaps using a drill, and making cuts with a metal saw or a file. I use a tabletop lathe for this. To avoid damaging the thread during clamping, wrap soft wire around the thread.

If your printer did not successfully print the thread, you can correct it with an M4 tap. Use threadlocker to secure it. However, if you've tightly screwed the handle, you might not need the adhesive.

Before assembling multi-component models, I use various tools and devices. Links to many of these are listed below, though not all may be necessary for your work. I indicate the tools that I would use. Not all post-processes shown in the videos are mandatory. I'm frequently asked why I sand plastic parts, and my response is that I prefer a finished look to the product. I'm making a functional tool, which I'll use for a long time and prefer it to be neat.

Regarding the frequent use of additional elements in my projects, such as fasteners that could be printed or other parts made of metal and other materials, I reiterate that I am creating a functional tool primarily for myself. It needs to meet my specifications, and I share it only secondarily. These are not simple models printed for the sake of printing; they are my tools.

The Pantograph Lift Desk exemplifies how a classic mechanism can be adapted to meet modern needs, providing functionality and convenience across various fields. Numerous similar tables exist with varying quality. I have also included links to some commercially available products below.

For this table, I recently ordered a lead screw pair with a T5 thread and a 6mm pitch. I also created four modified parts to accommodate the new lead screw pair. However, the nut itself will need to be modified as well — the flange needs to be removed. I did this on a lathe, but even if I didn't have one, I could have accomplished it by securing the nut in a drill and working it from there. It's all about technique and having the willingness to get it done.

What does this achieve and what's the difference: previously, using a threaded rod with a standard M4 thread required a lot of turns to raise or lower the table, which was quite frustrating. Now, it takes just a few turns to get the job done, making the process much more efficient and less annoying. The modified parts are labeled with the T5 prefix. I attached the handle to the shaft using epoxy.

Trapezoidal Screw Rod T5 Lead 6mm Length 100mm - https://go.like-it.link/qeJo0L