Jerry Glickstein's Custom Scroll Saw

While browsing the internet the other night I came across a truly uniqe tool that I think might be of interest to any modeler. I look at it as a custom built multi-tool as it performs more than one function. It acts as a traditional Scroll Saw or it can quickly be adapted to use for filing by installing a various assortment of file blades (a triangular file can be seen in the picture).

Jerry Glickstein, of New York is the moderator of the Yahoo Group "MEworkshop" (Model Engineering Workshop). A group of like minded individuals who are not only model enthusiasts but because of their interest also design and built custom modeling tools.

Back in the early eighties when he was getting started with his model building Jerry decided that he needed a Scroll Saw. He was able to build his own from materials he had on hand. The result of his efforts is shown below.

With a file installed it can be used to clean up edges on any wooden or metal parts, whether they be lasered edges, edges cut on a CNC machine etc. Round files are also great for creating internal radii.

The Scroll Saw is also ideal for frames because the files and/or scroll saw blades can be inserted into an enclosed frame.

Run by a gear driven motor with a flexible coupling of his own design, when plugged into a special transformer (called an "Autotransformer"), you can achieve any speed from 0 RPM to the maximum speed of the motor output.

The drive is made out of tool steel parts that have been heat treated for maximum utility.

Everything runs on ball bearings, except the linear movement of the drill blank rods that carry the clamps that run in linear ball bushings (special linear bearings with recirculating balls in a "U" shaped race), originally developed by Thompson Industries.

Another unique feature is that it has two interchangeable frames, allowing accomodation of longer parts. The upright for each frame has a series of holes that allow for the use of any blades that break as they get shorter. The clamps for the blades/files are also tool steel and heat treated (hardened and tempered).

At the top is an adjustable compression spring for tension.