Group Assignment Contribution

As part of this week's group assignment, I contributed by defining the design rules tailored for our in-house PCB fabrication process.

Overview of Wegstr CNC Machines

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines have significantly transformed how we approach manufacturing and prototyping by offering high precision and repeatability. Among the trusted names in this domain is Wegstr, a Czech-based company recognized for its compact and user-friendly CNC milling machines. In this section, I’ll be sharing insights into the core features, available models, and use cases of Wegstr CNC machines, and why they’re a reliable choice for educational and small-scale manufacturing setups.

Main Features of Wegstr CNC Machines

Wegstr machines come equipped with multiple features that make them efficient and easy to use. The table below outlines the main technical specifications that set them apart from other desktop CNC machines:

These features make Wegstr CNC machines suitable for a wide range of applications, from PCB milling to intricate designs in various materials.

Types of Wegstr CNC Machines

Wegstr offers different types of CNC machines tailored to specific needs and applications. Below is a comparison table of the various types available:

Each type of machine is designed to cater to different user requirements, ensuring that there is a suitable option for everyone, from hobbyists to professionals.

Applications of Wegstr CNC Machines

Wegstr CNC machines are widely used across various industries due to their versatility and precision. They are particularly popular in:
– Electronics: For milling PCBs and creating intricate electronic components.
– Woodworking: Ideal for crafting detailed wooden designs and furniture.
– Metalworking: Capable of milling metals for parts in machinery and automotive applications.
– Prototyping: Used in R&D for rapid prototyping of new designs.

Individual Assignment

As we have done form the PCB Design 2 weeks back we are gonna bring that back in KiCAD

This is the Schematic Diagram. We have done in the last week what was the actual concept is to glow up the Light from one by one like a Circular thing. What I have done is like giving the connection to the D4 pin and then Individually blinking with Time delays

Now What we are gonna do this change to the PCB Production mode and then Import the Module

In the Previous week, we have done this Assembling all the things what we are gonna do is Just make some adjustments to Get this into Real World

Step 1

In our Machine there will be a Track width Constraint. So what we need to do is to change the track width to 0.6mm

Step 2

So next we will change the Xiao - Seeed studio ESP32C3 pad size from X : 3mm to Y : 1.5mm. This will help us to place the Xiao Board accurate

Step 3

And we have to check traces and It should not be connected like this

Step 4

Next we are gonna change the page to the actual bed size of our machine to print it accurately. Our bed size is within 100*100 mm. So we are gonna setup to that

Step 5

Then fit the PCB inside like the below image

Step 6

Then we move to File -> Plot

Step 7

Next in the Plot Window, We have to select what are the layers that we are gonna print here we print F.Cu layer so we select that alone and then select the desired Output Directory and then Make sure to check the Negative Plot then only It will be easy for us to print the file in Wegster anthen output mode s black and white then select plot and then in output messages shown will be the directory and File name

This is the what we got as a Output

MODS CE Overview

MODS CE is a powerful web-based platform designed for controlling and interfacing with digital fabrication machines. It provides a modular interface for creating custom workflows that can be tailored to specific machines and processes.

With MODS CE, users can configure toolpaths, simulate processes, and manage machine settings all within a single, cohesive environment. It is particularly well-suited for educational settings and maker spaces, thanks to its flexibility and ease of use.

Advantages of MODS CE

• User-Friendly Interface: MODS CE offers an intuitive graphical interface that simplifies the process of machine configuration and control.
• Modular Design: The platform's modularity allows users to create custom workflows and adapt the system to a wide range of machines and tasks.
• Web-Based Access: Being web-based, MODS CE can be accessed from any device with a web browser, making it convenient and versatile.
• Educational Tool: It serves as an excellent educational resource, supporting hands-on learning and experimentation with digital fabrication technologies.
• Open Source: As an open-source platform, MODS CE encourages community contributions and continuous improvement.

Then let’s move on to MoDSCE initally while get into this Interface I have reloaded my website that as it doesn't showed up anything

Then only read the Instructions to right click into get into options

First we right click on the empty area and there will be a lot of pop ups from thee select the Programs

Then Click on the Mill 2D PCB and then Select the SVG file from your last week design

Then we move on to the offset selection for the board production as the board will be slightly deviate from actually see it om as a Design

Then nwxt what we are gonna do is make some calculations and then provide a Proper result of how the things will be

Then finally get a NC File in the output and save the output file that is the G-Code thats we need to be generated

PCB Milling

PCB milling involves mechanically removing material from a copper-clad board to create electrical isolation and form circuit patterns. Unlike traditional etching methods, which use chemical solutions to dissolve unwanted copper, milling uses precision-controlled milling bits to physically carve out the desired traces. The process is typically carried out using a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling machine, which is programmed to follow a specific design layout to guarantee accuracy and repeatability.

Introduction about Wegstr Machine an d Software

The Wegstr PCB milling machine is a compact desktop CNC designed specifically for rapid PCB prototyping. It allows users to fabricate circuit boards by milling copper-clad boards instead of traditional chemical etching. This is ideal for makers, engineers, and students who want to quickly test their circuit designs. The Wegstr software complements the machine by providing an intuitive interface to load, simulate, and control the CNC toolpaths (usually in G-code format). Users can import files generated from FlatCAM (like the front copper and edge cuts), visualize the milling process, set spindle speeds, and control axis movements with precision. Together, the Wegstr machine and software offer a clean, fast, and eco-friendly approach to producing custom PCBs directly from your digital designs.

Our Machine Specification

Our Tool Bits

PCB Milling Bits – Introduction

PCB milling bits are precision cutting tools used in CNC milling machines to engrave, cut, and drill printed circuit boards (PCBs). These bits come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific operations like trace isolation, hole drilling, or edge cutting. Common types include engraving bits, V-bits, and end mills. Engraving Bits: Used for isolating copper traces. End Mills: Ideal for drilling and cutting board outlines. V-Bits: Provide sharp and clean traces for finer details. Material is usually tungsten carbide for durability. Bit selection depends on trace width, depth, board material, and required precision.

Auto Levelling

I connected the PCB milling machine to the PC and prepared it for fabrication. I securely fixed the copper-clad board onto the machine's bed using proper fixtures to ensure stability during milling. This alignment is crucial to prevent shifting, ensuring accurate cutting and precise trace isolation throughout the milling process.

I manually verified the auto-leveling of the machine to ensure the milling bit would maintain accurate depth across the PCB surface. I carefully set the Z-axis zero position by gently lowering the bit until it just touched the copper surface, ensuring precise engraving during the PCB fabrication process.

Then, I imported the F.Cu (front copper) file into the Wegstr software to verify auto-leveling across all test points. This step ensures the copper surface is uniformly leveled and aligned with the toolpath, preventing uneven milling and improving the accuracy and quality of the PCB engraving during fabrication.

Milling operation

During the milling operation, the spindle rotated at 11,000 RPM, while simultaneously moving along the X and Y axes as defined by the NC (Numerical Control) code. The software automatically indicated completion once the milling process finished. Above is the final milled PCB output, which reflects the successful execution of the toolpath instructions.

I have done 2 versions because of the initial layers forms a Greeny layer

Hero Shot

And the Board is working Properly

Finally Leaving my files here

Design Files