Making the CFT Box¶
Fusion 360¶
Once I had my plan I jumped into Fusion and started modeling. I want to use parameters where I can so I can make different size systems with different material thickness.
Fusion 360 Model¶
Screenshot of the CFT model in Fusion 360
Screenshot of the parameters in Fusion 360
Using the Fusion parametric model I should be able to change any dimension and the model should update correctly.
Download CFT .f3d Fusion 360 file
Inkscape¶
After spending two days making the Fusion 360 model I decided to make the model again, but this time using Inkscape. Before jumping into Inkscape I measured the plywood sheet that I had. The plywood sheet was 1250 mm x 2500 mm x 12 mm. I wanted everything to fit on one sheet so I had to adjust the size of the model to fit. The height was the same as I had decided at 1000 mm, but to fit everything on the plywood sheet I had to make the sides 600 mm instead of 1000 mm.
In Inkscape I made more details than in the Fusion model, adding markers for where all screws should be. I was able to make the Inkscape file in less than two hours.
Screenshot of the design file in Inkscape
Download CFT .svg Inkscape file
VCarve¶
Once I had the Inkscape file ready I jumped into VCarve to make all the toolpaths for the Shopbot.
I started by making dogbones inside the finger joints to allow slotted pieces to fit together
Dogbones made in VCarve
Toolpaths made in VCarve
After I had all the dogbones set I moved on and made the toolpaths to mill everything. Starting with a 6mm downcut endmill I mill 3mm down into the material. Then I use a 6mm upcut endmill to go through the material leaving tabs in place to keep everything secure.