09. Computer-Controlled Machining
Jump to: Design Process | File Preparation | Machining | Assembly
This week we will start working with the Shop Bot for the Computer Controlled Machining assignment.
The Design Process
Concept - A very simple multi-functional 'Standing Desk'
I wanted to design a standing desk for this week as I prefer standing while working. I wanted to create something that would be useful for me and satisfy the weeks assignment at the same time.
The image above shows the final design. Simple design (and for me extremely useful!) using the entire sheet to make the minimal structure.
The image above shows all pieces fitting perfectly on one sheet on plywood. I had to repeat the slicing process a few times to achieve this. I used fewer sections than my original design, but due to the fact we are using thing plywood it should be stable enough.
Preparing The File For Machining
Partworks
Preparing the file for milling in Partworks.
ShopBot Software
After we save it is partworks, we export the file for opening in ShopBot's control software..
Machining - Using a Shop Bot
Cutting out the pieces
Shopbot hard at work cutting out the pieces. We are using 23/32" plywood.
The ready pieces are taken out and sanded.
I sanded down the rough edges of the plywood before final assembly.
Assembly
Assembly was very straight forward for this design. A slightly larger scale press-fit construction set that we had previously experimented with using the laser cutter.
At times it was very difficult to press-fit certain parts as the material was not 100% even (in terms of thickness). Some parts fit perfectly while others were slightly loose or even too tight. Obviously the too tight parts were the more complicated ones. I would suggest to measure every part of the sheet (edges at least) and stick with the thickest part as a base value.
Fitting nicely together. No need for glue or other hardware! An absolute must in my opinion.
Adding more sections and testing how pieces fit.
Almost completed.
The final completed standing desk. Looks pretty good and most importantly it works perfectly for me (designed to my exact height).
Anna giving it its first official test.
The second part of the design, a bench.. I was worried that it might not be strong enough as the middle part is floating a bit. However, the strength of the material is really very high. Easily can sit with two people on it without any sign of stress.
My beautiful girlfriend wife making my bench look so much better!!
