Metal Loom?

Hi All;

I am very new to this site but didn't know where else to go. I am a fibre art junky and although I don't currently weave it will be only a matter of time before I learn how to do so. I spin, knit, quilt, sew, batik, etc. On top of my love for textiles I am also a welding and fabrication student. We have been asked to create a project and I am extremely interested in melding the two together. I am hoping to design a metal loom.

Here's my problem, and where I'm hoping this community can be of some assistance to me. I have never weaved before (although I have seen the art demonstrated on various occasions). I'm not sure what I should be thinking of designing. I would like to fabricate something a little more complex than a simple metal frame but something a lot less complicated than a large floor tapestry loom. I also would like this to be an instrument that I will be able to use for years to come to experiment with and learn with.

I am not opposed to having to machine a couple of gears as long as it is only a couple. I only have 2 weeks to complete this project and it needs to combine elements of welding as well as fabrication. I think a loom could satisfy both my love of metal and fibre arts as well as make an aesthetically stunning piece.

Any ideas of where I should start? Suggestions? Any and all input is greatly appreciated.

Thank you & Take Care.