Re: Water-jet cut delta?

Let me preface by saying that I really don't fully understand some of the geometry involved in a delta yet, so I don't understand why some of the items (like ball end jointed rods) are used in them.

If I was to do a Quantum Delta style, are there alternatives to the rails that I could fabricate? Could the 3/4" PVC sheet be cut to form rails? What about sheet aluminum (or other metal) strips attached PVC sheet material?

What about the rods and rod ends, and the pulleys? For the pulleys, could I cut them on the 5-axis cutter and maybe use a washer on each side as a keeper to prevent the timing belt from slipping off? As for the rods and rod ends, the LISA Simpson looks like it uses solid plastic (albeit printed) arms. Could I use a system like that instead of the traditional rods and ends?

My other question on the Quantum Delta style is, how much of a factor is the weight of the build platform? What about the design would limit my build volume? What would limit my ability to print multiple filaments? Would I have to figure out how to have the build plate heated?

Lastly, are there any other designs, like the Wally, etc., that might lend themselves better to being built from water-jet cut parts?