In reality, probably not, Bill. But part of this project is to stimulate thinking and get people involved at least vicariously. I'm just throwing out what is going through my mind to hopefully encourage learning about the design process. Even on what may appear to be a simple mechanism such as a table that moves back and forth, once you start putting in place the theoretical desires vs practicality limits....the wheels start turning. At least I hope so. That's one thing I will enjoy on this thread. Of course, at some point, there will be less and less room for outside changes and things will bound by previous design decisions. But until then, I like the community concept of this project and seeing as many as possible put in their thoughts.
And to all you who think you aren't "good enough" or don't "know enough" I say "Hogwash!". This is your rare opportunity to engage in some work that isn't often even available to you. Talk openly about your ideas. Ask"dumb" questions. How else can you grow? Take advantage of this, please.
To Rick, on the ballscrews. I'll tackle my own answer in another thread in more depth, perhaps, but offhand my decision would be against it based on overkill, the need for right angle gearing to be incorporated, same issue on easy table lift off, and expense. My hands aren't working all that good right now due to an inflammation of my ulnar nerve where it passes through the cubital tunnel, plus my laptop keyboard (part of the cause of the nerve problem I suspect) is getting to be hit or miss on characters, requiring lots of re-typing. And I can't type in the first place. I am taking meds for it, so if/when that helps, I will go into a verbose (bad habit of mine), long winded explanation. Meanwhile, hopefully someone else will also tackle your question. I'm glad you asked it.
