ttyACM0 no such file or directory On Ubunutu 14.04
Ok, it sounds like there is an issue with the ATMega(8/16)U2 chip or its surroundings.  It might just need its firmware refreshing (which can be done with another Arduino as a programmer) or it might be plain dead.

Another possibility is the USB socket itself.  I have two UNOs, one which is perfectly fine, and one where I need to hold the cable at just the right angle for it to connect properly.  You can try using a fine needle to try and raise the four metal strips in the USB connector a fraction to make better contact.