Making a pantograph

[ray_m]

Cut out the collector pieces from .010" brass.
Form the bends where indicated to look like this.
   

Remove the excess solder with a small file.
Cut a 1/2" long piece of 3/32"dia. brass tube.
Insert the tube through the holes in the brackets.
Clamp the assembly to the Popsicle stick and solder the tube in place.
   

Fabricate the two equalizer arms from .020" wire as shown in the drawings.
To install them you must install the first one then turn the two assemblies 90 degrees as shown to get the other one to install.
Both arms must face the inside to give clearance for the locking tabs on the collector.
   

Install the mount brackets and temporarily mount the assembly to a piece of wood.
Trim the extra wire where the lower arm assemblies pivot.
The equalizer levers may need to be adjusted to make the ends of the lower arm assemblies lay on the wood block evenly.
At this point you will find out how accurate the mount brackets and lower arm assemblies are.
   

Install the collector.
You may need to file the ends that insert into the collector tube for it to operate smoothly.
I had to do a little tweaking to get it straight.
Don't be afraid to twist it a bit, it may look fragile, but it's amazingly strong.
Adjust the locking tabs so they will latch onto the mount brackets.
In the photo I have one spring installed to show where they attach.